Nationalism

William Pfaff, writing in the International Herald Tribune, has an interesting take on the subject of nationalism in the modern world. One may disagree with him on Afghanistan and Iraq, but find oneself nodding in assent when he reaches the end of his article, with its conclusion that

Nationalism has been the most important force in modern history, resisting and outlasting all totalitarianisms. It easily merges with religious fundamentalism, which is another way to affirm identity. It makes use of terrorism because this is the weapon of the weak. But nationalism is what it is all about. After all, what has driven U.S. policy since Sept. 11, 2001, if not outraged nationalism?

Hat tip: M.-A. Kelam