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A problem with nationalism in England is perhaps that it looks back to the past rather than to the future - it's based on out-dated and fantastical ideas of exceptionalism and has become a refuge for those that dislike the modern, global world.
carson-
Came back to this thread to post exactly this. So much English nationalism seems not to want to forge a new, better version of the country, but instead drag it back to an imagined past where 'things were better'. AA Gill puts it better than I ever could.
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it's based on out-dated and fantastical ideas of exceptionalism and has become a refuge for those that dislike the modern, global world.
It's interesting isn't it how different people view the same thing?Personally, one of the (many) things that has really rustled my jimmies about Brexit is having a group of people effectively tell me I'm not patriotic or hate my country. I have a huge amount of pride for the many great things England and Britain has done. None of that prevents me recognising the whole host of the cunty things either.
For me, modern globalisation is the most quintessentially British movement there is. Likewise immigration is fundamental to my view of British identity, as is the rule of law, and technological advancement.
Having people in my family tree who were immigrants and chose here as a safe place to rebuild their lives, no doubt shapes my outlook.
tb
hugo7
Interesting. Can I ask how you’ve come to this conclusion? Larger nations like the US, Mexico and Brazil seem to rely on a shared national identity for their development, which is contrary to your theory. I’m interested in learning more about post-national options though.