Ernest Gellner's, "Nation and Nationalism" (Book Note)

 

Ernest Gellner's book, "Nation and Nationalism," explores the pivotal role of nationalism as a fundamental principle in political legitimation and modernity. His theory connects nationalism deeply with the process of industrialization, arguing that nationalism is only relevant within the context of modernization and industrialization, primarily in the political and cultural spheres. Gellner underscores the importance of cultural homogeneity as the foundation of nationalism within a nation-state, asserting that nationalism precedes the state and that "stateless societies cannot experience nationalism."

 

Each chapter of the book delves into different dimensions of nationalism. Gellner begins by offering a significant definition of nationalism as a "political principle," insisting on the congruence of political and national units and discouraging ethnic boundaries from cutting across political ones. He traces mankind's evolution through three stages: Pre-agrarian, Agrarian, and Industrial. In the pre-agrarian phase, there was no concept of the state, and thus, no nationalism. The agrarian phase witnessed the existence of the state as optional, with no mandatory adherence to state principles. The industrial phase marked the inescapable presence of the state.

 

Gellner further justifies the compatibility of nationalism only in industrialized societies, attributing it to the division of labor and the pursuit of knowledge. Industrial society, characterized by rationality, consistency, and coherence, sees culture as a unifying force rather than a dominating one. Gellner contrasts this with agrarian societies, where rulers were distant from the ruled, leading to hierarchies and inequalities. In the industrial society, the quest for knowledge and effective communication facilitates specialization, learning, reduced inequalities, stronger connections, and greater homogenization. The central argument emerges: "nationalism arises whenever and wherever barriers exist to the spread of industrial society and the homogenization it brings with it."

 

Gellner rejects various forms of nationalism, notably Kedourie's idea that nationalist theory is an accidental and inessential development. He challenges the Marxists' "Wrong Address Theory," disputing the claim that nationalism's message was intended for classes but mistakenly delivered to nations.

 

In addressing the problems and conflicts associated with nationalism, Gellner introduces four typologies: 'Satisfied Nationalism,' 'Classical Liberal Nationalism,' 'Ethnic Nationalism,' and 'Diaspora Nationalism.' He illustrates the dilemmas surrounding these forms, highlighting the challenges in predicting which cultures will successfully adopt nationalism with strong political roots. Gellner ultimately reflects on the positive consequences of nationalism for modern society, emphasizing the necessity of required homogeneity and endorsing a 'functionalist' approach to nationalism.