Modernist theories of the emergence of nations and nationalism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the rise of nationalism as a prominent political and cultural force.

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Modernist scholars sought to understand the dynamics of nation-building and the origins of nationalism by emphasizing rational, objective, and secular factors. Key modernist theories include:

Primordialism:

Primordialist theories argue that nations and nationalism have deep, primordial roots in pre-modern, ancient, or even biological ties. This perspective suggests that nations are based on a natural sense of identity, such as shared language, culture, religion, or ethnicity, which has persisted through generations. Early proponents of this view include scholars like Clifford Geertz and Elie Kedourie.

Instrumentalism/Rational Choice Theory:

Instrumentalist or rational choice theories, associated with scholars like Anthony Smith and Eric Hobsbawm, emphasize the instrumental role of elites in creating and manipulating national identities for political purposes. According to this perspective, nationalism is a strategic tool used by political elites to achieve specific goals, such as state-building, legitimization of power, or mobilization of support.

Modernization Theory:

Modernization theorists, including Ernest Gellner and Benedict Anderson, propose that the emergence of nations and nationalism is closely tied to the processes of modernization and industrialization. According to Gellner, the transition from agrarian, feudal societies to industrialized, urbanized ones necessitates a standardized, homogeneous culture and a shared national identity. Benedict Anderson’s concept of “imagined communities” highlights the role of print capitalism and the mass media in creating a sense of shared identity among dispersed populations.

Banal Nationalism:

Michael Billig’s theory of “banal nationalism” suggests that nationalism is not only expressed in grandiose symbols and ceremonies but is also present in everyday, mundane activities. According to Billig, routine, everyday actions, such as the display of national flags or the use of national symbols, contribute to the continuous reproduction of national identity.

Cultural Modernism:

Cultural modernist theories, associated with scholars like Hans Kohn and Carlton J. H. Hayes, emphasize the importance of cultural factors in the formation of nations. They argue that nations are shaped by shared historical experiences, cultural traditions, and a collective consciousness that evolves over time. These theories acknowledge the role of culture but emphasize its modern, evolving nature.

Ethnic Nationalism:

Ethnic nationalism theories, articulated by scholars like Walker Connor and Rogers Brubaker, stress the importance of ethno-cultural ties as the foundation of nations. Ethnic nationalism suggests that shared ancestry, language, religion, or cultural traits form the basis for national identity. It often intersects with primordialist perspectives but may also consider the constructed nature of these identities.

Social Constructionism:

Social constructionist theories, associated with scholars like Anthony D. Smith, argue that nations are socially constructed entities. This perspective recognizes that national identities are not natural or primordial but are actively created and negotiated by individuals and groups. Social constructionists emphasize the importance of historical narratives, rituals, and symbols in shaping national identities.

While modernist theories offer valuable insights into the emergence of nations and nationalism, it’s important to note that they have been critiqued and complemented by other perspectives, such as postmodernist and constructivist theories. These alternative approaches highlight the contingent and fluid nature of national identities, challenging the modernist emphasis on fixed, homogeneous cultures and identities.