Discussion: Nationalism

Nationalism is the belief that a shared national identity and loyalty to one’s country are important. It shapes how people see themselves, how they relate to others, and how societies organize politically and culturally. Nationalism can inspire pride, civic engagement, and collective action—but it can also create tension, exclusion, or conflict when national identity is narrowly defined or politicized. In this Civic Discussion Meetup, we’ll focus primarily on U.S. nationalism—its history, evolution, and current role in shaping politics, culture, and society. We’ll explore questions such as: How does national pride influence civic participation? When does nationalism unite, and when does it divide? How does it intersect with issues like immigration, diversity, and America’s place in the world? This discussion is designed to be thoughtful, evidence-based, and open. Participants will have the chance to examine both the benefits and challenges of national identity, and to consider how U.S. nationalism affects the country’s present and future. Optional Material: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qa_PCNgW79E