159. A rise in false nationalism resurfaces

Are the ongoing conflicts and the broader tensions among various countries a resurgence of nationalism?

A nationalist advocates for their country's rights and interests. Many modern pseudo-intellectuals dismiss nationalism as an ideology, often citing Adolf Hitler's actions as their main argument. While some of their points are valid, it's also true that at certain moments in history, this ideology can be honored, especially when the political, economic, and social conditions create a suitable environment for it.

Nationalist ideas largely depend on historical facts. History is presented with all its vivid and intense features because understanding one’s past fosters pride in one's heritage. As the saying goes, I can only fight for what I love, and I can only love what I respect; to respect something, I must know at least something about it. Hence, knowing history is crucial, as it can cultivate pride and respect for our nation and humanity.

Nationalism frequently devalues human life by making sacrifice seem normal. When saving millions involves sacrificing individuals, the ideology often displays apathy. Although it shares similarities with fascist ideas, it is not the same. Hitler’s mass killings aimed to protect a small group of Germans and should not be equated with genuine nationalism. Adopting his approach results in inhumanity and a twisted perception of the ideology.

The global revival is not a true resurgence of nationalism; instead, it is a misrepresentation of history used to support political agendas, often disguised in various forms.

When B.T. Washington said that no race can prosper until it recognizes that there is as much dignity in tilling a field as in writing a poem, he was not referring to a race in its literal sense. What he meant was the people of a nation occupying a piece of land on Earth, dreaming of staying together in harmony. 

Therefore, we must refresh our perspective with a new idea—adopting a global outlook. History is part of all of us, and we should take pride in our heritage, not just in the daily customs of our ancestors.

Hitler offers some meaningful insights into history and how it should be examined and understood. Setting aside our bias against Hitler, I quote what he says: “To study history means to search for and uncover the forces that cause what we see as historical events. The skill of reading and studying lies in remembering the essentials and forgetting what isn't.” The balance is delicate but crucial.

Phrases like 'Make America Great Again' and similar slogans are a primary cause of global unrest. 

It offers a foundation for both an expanding and contracting world order.

Nations should now focus on discarding non-essential elements from their history.

For lighter moments, a minister came home with an honorary degree from a university. His son was very curious and asked what an honorary degree was. 'Well, for example, when your mother says I am the master of the house,’ the minister replied.