"In the kingdom of Penthungjaya, the illustrious Prabu Penthung Pinanggul ascended the throne. With a flair for the dramatic and a knack for deception, he swiftly ousted his political foes. The Green Party, once his staunch supporters, found themselves without a single seat in the Royal Council. Meanwhile, those who had backed him were rewarded with prestigious positions, their loyalty bought with promises of power and influence.Prabu Penthung Pinanggul, lacking any real substance, relied on his 'talent for trickery' and a touch of theatrics. He plundered the kingdom’s coffers to fund his grandiose schemes, all while being backed by influential Tycoons with ties to Emperor Jin Kang Ping. These Tycoons, with their deep pockets and deeper connections, ensured that Prabu’s reign was as smooth as his silver tongue.One day, the Prabu set his sights on conquering Lembusura, the mighty red-eyed bull who had once helped him seize the throne. Unfazed by loyalty, the Prabu dreamt of defeating Lembusura in battle, chopping him up, and turning him into a delicious beef stew for lunch. He imagined the savoury aroma wafting through the palace halls, a testament to his power and cunning.But alas, the Prabu’s dreams were not so easily realised. Lembusura was a formidable foe, his strength and ferocity unmatched. The Prabu’s entire army, despite their best efforts, was soundly defeated. The battlefield was a chaotic scene of clashing swords and bellowing warriors, but Lembusura stood tall, his red eyes blazing with defiance.Undeterred by this setback, the Prabu shifted his focus to the Yellow Banyan Tree, a majestic symbol of the kingdom’s resilience. He planned to fell the tree, its golden leaves a stark contrast to his dark ambitions. After all, he couldn’t forget his former profession as a carpenter, a humble trade that now seemed a lifetime away. He couldn't wait to sit on the grand chair made of banyan tree wood.And so, the entire Penthungjaya army marched towards the Yellow Banyan Tree. The Prabu, with his characteristic bravado, led the charge, his mind filled with visions of victory. The tree, however, stood as a silent witness to the kingdom’s history, its roots deep and unyielding.As the soldiers prepared to strike, a hush fell over the crowd. The Prabu, sensing the gravity of the moment, raised his hand. 'This tree,' he declared, 'shall fall, and with it, the old ways. We shall build anew, stronger and more glorious than ever before!'But the tree, ancient and wise, had other plans. Its branches swayed gently in the breeze as if mocking the Prabu’s hubris. The soldiers hesitated, their axes heavy in their hands. Could they destroy something so beautiful, so enduring?What fate awaits this majestic tree? Will the Prabu’s ambitions be realised? Is the tree still strong or is it already rotten? Stay tuned for the next satire in this absurd saga!"
"National identity is not just a superficial label; it deeply influences how people see themselves and others, how they relate to their country, and how they participate in society. National identity indeed matters to people, but the significance and meaning of this identity can vary widely depending on context and individual circumstances," Cattleya carried on.
"David McCrone and Frank Bechhofer found that national identity often intersects with other forms of identity, such as ethnicity, religion, and class, making it a complex and multifaceted concept. They highlight that while some people may express strong feelings of national pride and attachment, others might see their national identity as less central to their overall sense of self. Nonetheless, the idea of national identity plays a crucial role in social and political life, shaping everything from personal relationships to public policies.McCrone and Bechhofer make a clear distinction between national identity and nationality or even having a passport. National Identity refers to a person's sense of belonging to a nation, which is more about how individuals perceive themselves and their connection to a particular nation. National identity encompasses feelings of attachment, pride, and cultural affinity. It is a social and psychological construct shaped by various factors like history, culture, language, and personal experiences. National identity is subjective and can vary widely even among people with the same nationality.Nationality, on the other hand, is a legal status that signifies a person's membership in a specific nation-state. It is often tied to legal rights and responsibilities, such as the right to vote, access to social services, and protection under the law. Nationality is usually documented by a passport or other official identification and is recognized by governments and international bodies.A passport is a formal document issued by a government that certifies a person's identity and nationality. It allows the holder to travel internationally and provides proof of citizenship. While a passport indicates nationality, it does not necessarily reflect a person's national identity. For example, someone might hold a passport from one country but feel a stronger national identity with another due to cultural, ethnic, or familial ties.In summary, while nationality and having a passport are legal and administrative concepts, national identity is a more personal and subjective notion that reflects an individual's emotional and cultural connection to a nation. The two are related but distinct; a person can have a legal nationality without feeling a strong national identity, and vice versa.McCrone and Bechhofer acknowledge that in certain regions and among certain groups, national identity can be particularly complex and fraught with ambiguity or contention. Individuals who belong to minority groups within a nation, such as ethnic, religious, or linguistic minorities, often experience ambiguous or contested national identities. For example, people who identify with more than one cultural or ethnic group might find it difficult to fully align themselves with a single national identity. Immigrants and their descendants, especially those who maintain strong ties to their country of origin, may also navigate multiple identities, leading to ambiguity in how they see themselves and how they are seen by others.There are several regions around the world where national identity is particularly contested due to historical, political, or social reasons. For instance, areas with histories of colonization, territorial disputes, or divided loyalties may have populations that identify with different nationalities or reject the imposed national identity. Examples include regions like Northern Ireland, where national identity can be sharply divided between Irish and British allegiances, or Catalonia in Spain, where a significant portion of the population identifies as Catalan rather than Spanish.Another example, in Indonesia, the situation of Chinese Indonesians (now popular with the term 'Chindo') can indeed be seen as a contested national identity. Chinese Indonesians have historically faced challenges in fully integrating into the broader Indonesian national identity due to their distinct ethnic, cultural, and religious background. Over the years, they have often been perceived as outsiders or as having a dual identity, especially during periods of political and social tension. The situation is further complicated by historical events, such as the anti-Chinese sentiments and discriminatory policies during the Suharto era, which enforced assimilation while simultaneously marginalizing the Chinese community. This group's experience reflects the ambiguity and contestation of national identity as discussed by McCrone and Bechhofer. Chinese Indonesians may identify strongly with their Chinese heritage, including language, culture, and traditions, while also grappling with their Indonesian nationality. This dual or hybrid identity can lead to tensions, both within the community and in their relationship with the broader Indonesian society.Thus, Chinese Indonesians exemplify how national identity can be contested and negotiated, as they navigate between their ethnic identity and the expectations of national belonging in Indonesia. Indeed, Indonesians are those who love and cherish Indonesia.McCrone and Bechhofer explore the complexities surrounding the claiming of national identity, emphasizing that such claims are not automatically accepted but are subject to validation or rejection by others based on various social, cultural, and political criteria. When someone claims a national identity, they are essentially asserting their belonging to a particular nation, often invoking shared cultural, historical, or linguistic ties. This claim reflects the individual's sense of self and how they perceive their place within the national community.Others may accept or reject this claim. Proficiency in the national language or dialect can be a key factor. If someone speaks the language fluently, they may be more readily accepted as part of that national identity. Participation in and adherence to the cultural norms, traditions, and customs of the nation can also influence whether others accept the identity claim.In some nations, particularly those with strong ethnic identities, having the 'right' ancestry or ethnic background might be crucial for others to accept one's claim to that national identity. The history of one's family about the nation, including how long they have been associated with it, can impact acceptance. Holding citizenship or legal nationality is often seen as a formal validation of national identity. However, even with citizenship, other factors like cultural alignment might still influence acceptance. The individual's political beliefs or loyalties, particularly in politically polarized nations, can affect whether others accept their national identity claim. Being recognized as part of the national community by one's peers or local community can play a significant role. Social ties and networks can either reinforce or undermine the individual's claim. Broader societal views, often shaped by media, political discourse, and public opinion, can also impact whether a national identity claim is accepted.McCrone and Bechhofer highlight that even when an individual strongly identifies with a nation, others might challenge this identity based on perceived discrepancies in cultural practices, ancestry, or political beliefs. The process of claiming and validating national identity is thus dynamic and can involve significant social negotiation. Whether someone’s claim to a national identity is accepted or rejected depends on a complex interplay of cultural, ethnic, political, and social factors. This process illustrates the subjective and contested nature of national identity.McCrone and Bechhofer argue that national identity has both internal substance and a role in defending group boundaries, but they emphasize that the substance of national identity is often intertwined with the need to demarcate and defend these boundaries. National identity, according to McCrone and Bechhofer, is not merely a superficial label; it encompasses a significant amount of internal substance, including shared beliefs, values, cultural practices, historical narratives, and collective memories. These elements provide a sense of belonging and community among those who identify with the nation. The internal substance of national identity is what gives it depth and meaning, allowing individuals to relate to one another through common experiences, symbols, and traditions.McCrone and Bechhofer suggest that the internal substance of national identity is often used to justify and reinforce group boundaries. For example, shared cultural practices or historical narratives may be emphasized to create a stronger sense of unity within the group and to differentiate the nation from others. In this way, the substance of national identity is both shaped by and shapes the boundaries that define the nation.
National identity is a powerful force in politics, shaping political attitudes, behaviours, and allegiances. McCrone and Bechhofer emphasize that political leaders and movements often invoke national identity to mobilize support, frame political debates, and legitimize their agendas. For example, nationalist movements may appeal to a shared sense of national identity to push for greater autonomy, independence, or resistance against perceived external influence.National identity can also be a source of political division, particularly in multicultural or multi-ethnic societies where different groups may have competing visions of what the nation represents. These divisions can lead to political conflict, as groups with distinct national identities may seek different political outcomes, such as devolution, federalism, or even secession.Constitutional reforms or changes may be driven by a desire to formalize and protect certain aspects of national identity. For example, constitutions might enshrine official languages, cultural symbols, or specific rights that are seen as central to the nation’s identity. National identity can be a key factor in debates over constitutional arrangements, such as those concerning the distribution of power between central and regional governments, the recognition of minority rights, or the status of different national groups within a state.Constitutional changes can also reshape national identity by altering the political and legal framework within which that identity is expressed. For example, the creation of new political institutions, changes in the legal recognition of different national groups, or shifts in the balance of power between national and regional authorities can lead to a redefinition of what it means to belong to the nation. In cases where constitutional changes result in greater autonomy or independence for a particular region or group, the national identity of that group may become more distinct, leading to a reconfiguration of national identities within the broader state.McCrone and Bechhofer argue that national identity is both a driver and a product of political and constitutional change. National identity influences political behaviour and constitutional arrangements, while constitutional changes, in turn, can redefine and reshape national identity. This dynamic relationship is particularly evident in contexts where questions of sovereignty, autonomy, and the recognition of national groups are central to political life.David Miller explores the relationship between citizenship and national identity, arguing that national identity plays a crucial role in democratic citizenship. He addresses the concepts of group identities, national identities, and democratic politics as interrelated phenomena in his exploration of citizenship and national identity. Group identities refer to the collective identity that individuals share based on characteristics such as ethnicity, religion, culture, or language. These identities can form the basis for social cohesion within smaller groups or communities. Miller acknowledges that group identities are essential in giving individuals a sense of belonging and helping to define their place within society. However, he also recognizes that group identities can lead to divisions or conflicts when they become too rigid or exclusionary.Miller argues that national identity is crucial for democratic politics because it fosters social cohesion and a sense of collective responsibility among citizens. A strong national identity can help ensure that citizens are committed to the democratic process and the welfare of their fellow citizens. Miller emphasizes the importance of constructing inclusive national identities, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to feel that they are part of the national community. This inclusivity is vital for the stability and effectiveness of democratic governance.Miller contends that democratic politics relies heavily on a shared national identity. This shared identity enables citizens to engage in the democratic process with a sense of mutual trust and a willingness to work together for the common good. He acknowledges that democratic politics can be challenged by the existence of strong group identities that may conflict with or undermine national identity. For democracy to function effectively, there must be a balance between respecting group identities and fostering a strong, inclusive national identity. Miller also discusses the role of the state in shaping and promoting national identity, arguing that the state should encourage a sense of national belonging while respecting the diversity of group identities within the nation.Miller analyses various strands of communitarianism—left, right, and centre—and explores their implications for political theory and practice. Left communitarianism emphasizes social justice, equality, and the importance of community in achieving these goals. It often critiques the excesses of individualism and market-driven approaches. They argue that community and shared values are essential for achieving a fair and just society. Miller acknowledges the contributions of left communitarianism in highlighting the social dimensions of justice and the need for communal bonds. However, he also notes that it must balance the emphasis on community with respect for individual rights and diversity.Right communitarianism often focuses on preserving traditional values, social order, and the role of established institutions in maintaining community cohesion. It tends to emphasize the importance of cultural and moral traditions. They advocate for a return to traditional values and institutions to counteract perceived social fragmentation. Miller critiques right communitarianism for potentially being too conservative and resistant to necessary social changes. He argues that while the focus on tradition and social order can provide stability, it should not hinder progress or the recognition of evolving social norms.Center communitarianism seeks a middle ground, combining aspects of both left and right communitarianism. It often aims to balance individual rights with communal responsibilities and values. They advocate for a pragmatic approach that respects both individual rights and community values. Miller appreciates the pragmatic and balanced approach of centre communitarianism. He sees it as a way to address the tensions between individualism and community without fully subscribing to either extreme.Miller recognizes that communitarianism, in its various forms, provides valuable insights into the relationship between individuals and their communities. However, he also points out that each strand has its limitations and potential pitfalls. For example, left communitarianism might struggle with reconciling communal values with individual freedoms, while right communitarianism might resist necessary social reforms. Miller appreciates the way communitarianism highlights the importance of community in shaping identity and promoting social cohesion. However, he argues that a balanced approach is needed, one that respects both individual rights and communal values.P. W. Preston explores how global changes are reshaping political and cultural identities. He argues that globalization has led to a blurring of national boundaries, making it increasingly difficult for people to maintain traditional national identities. The flow of goods, people, and information across borders challenges the notion of distinct national identities. As a result of globalization, there is a growing emergence of transnational identities. People are increasingly identifying with broader, global communities rather than strictly national or local ones. This shift reflects the interconnected nature of the modern world.Globalization has led to the creation of hybrid identities, where individuals blend elements of multiple cultures and nationalities. Preston notes that this hybridity can result in new forms of political and cultural expressions that do not fit neatly into traditional national categories. National identities are being reimagined to accommodate global influences. Countries are adapting their national narratives and symbols to incorporate aspects of global culture while maintaining their unique traditions.Preston highlights that cultural globalization fosters extensive cultural exchange, leading to the hybridization of cultural practices. This process can enrich cultural identities but also create tensions as local traditions interact with global influences. In response to global pressures, some communities resist cultural change to preserve traditional identities. Others adapt their cultural practices to fit within a global framework, leading to the development of new cultural forms.The shift in cultural and political identities due to globalization can lead to political realignments. Traditional political structures and ideologies may be challenged as new identity formations influence political behaviour and preferences. Preston examines the tension between global governance mechanisms and local autonomy. As global institutions gain influence, there is an ongoing negotiation between global standards and local cultural values.The changing landscape of identities can lead to conflicts, both within nations and between different cultural groups. Preston discusses how identity conflicts arise from competing visions of national and cultural identity. Despite conflicts, globalization also offers opportunities for integrating diverse identities. Preston emphasizes the potential for fostering greater understanding and cooperation among different cultural and political groups.Anthony D. Smith examines the origins and development of nationalist movements, the role of ethnicity and culture in the formation of nations, and the impact of nationalism on contemporary political issues. Smith defines nationalism as a political ideology that seeks to promote and protect the interests of a particular nation or ethnic group. In his view, nationalism is characterized by the belief in the significance of a shared cultural heritage, history, and identity among members of a nation. Smith argues that nationalism often has deep roots in ethnic and cultural identity. It is closely linked to a shared sense of history, language, and traditions that define the character of a nation. Nationalism revolves around the idea of the nation as a distinct and self-contained entity. This concept includes the notion that a nation should have its own state or political sovereignty. Smith highlights that nationalism is not just a modern phenomenon but has historical roots. He explores how nationalist movements draw on historical narratives and symbols to legitimize their claims and foster a sense of continuity and belonging. Nationalism often involves mobilizing people around a common national identity to achieve political goals, such as independence, autonomy, or the preservation of cultural heritage.Smith describes ideology as a set of beliefs, values, and ideas that provide a framework for understanding the world and guiding political and social behaviour. Ideology helps individuals and groups make sense of their environment and the society they live in. It provides a coherent set of ideas that explain how the world works and what should be done to improve it. It establishes norms and values that guide behaviour and decision-making. Ideologies offer criteria for evaluating political and social actions, shaping what is considered desirable or undesirable.Ideologies often contribute to the formation of group identity. They help people define who they are concerning others and foster a sense of belonging within a particular community or nation. Ideologies motivate and justify political and social action. They provide a basis for mobilizing people around specific causes, whether it be for reform, revolution, or maintaining the status quo.John E. Joseph explores how language shapes and reflects various aspects of identity, including national, ethnic, and religious dimensions. Language often serves as a key marker of national identity. It can be a powerful symbol of belonging and a means of distinguishing one nation from another. The use and promotion of a national language can reinforce a sense of shared identity among people within a nation.National identity is also shaped by political and social factors. The formation of nation-states, policies on language use, and social movements can all influence and redefine national identity. For example, language policies can either unify or divide people based on linguistic criteria.National identity is not static; it evolves. Changes in political boundaries, migration patterns, and social attitudes can all impact how national identity is perceived and expressed. National identity interacts with other forms of identity, such as ethnic, religious, and regional identities. These intersecting identities can complicate and enrich the understanding of what it means to belong to a nation.National identity plays several important roles within a society. National identity helps to create a sense of belonging among citizens, fostering social cohesion and unity. It enables individuals to see themselves as part of a larger community with shared goals and values. A strong national identity often legitimizes the authority of the state and its institutions. It provides a foundation for the social contract between the government and the governed, where citizens recognize the state’s authority in exchange for protection and the provision of services.National identity contributes to political stability by promoting loyalty to the nation and its institutions. It helps prevent internal divisions and conflicts that can arise from competing identities or allegiances. A strong national identity can enhance a nation’s resilience against external threats, such as foreign aggression or cultural imperialism. It strengthens the population’s willingness to defend the nation and maintain its sovereignty. National identity helps to preserve and promote a nation’s cultural heritage. It ensures that unique cultural practices, languages, and traditions are passed down to future generations. National identity often provides citizens with a sense of purpose and destiny, linking their personal identity with the collective future of the nation. This can inspire national pride, patriotism, and collective action in pursuit of common goals.National identity can face challenges from various sources. The spread of global culture, values, and economic systems can dilute national identity, leading to a loss of distinctiveness. This is particularly true in cases where global influences overshadow local traditions and practices. Societies with significant ethnic, religious, or regional diversity may struggle to maintain a cohesive national identity. Competing sub-national identities can lead to tensions, conflict, and even calls for secession. Large-scale migration can introduce new cultures, languages, and identities into a nation, potentially challenging the existing national identity. The integration of migrants into the national fabric can be a complex and sometimes contentious process. Political polarization and ideological divisions can weaken national identity by creating opposing camps that see themselves as fundamentally different from one another. This can lead to a fragmented society with competing visions of what the nation should represent. Advances in technology, particularly in communication and media, can challenge traditional notions of national identity. The rise of social media, for example, allows for the rapid spread of alternative narratives and identities that may conflict with the official national identity.National identity is a multifaceted concept that plays a crucial role in the cohesion, stability, and continuity of a nation. It encompasses shared history, language, culture, values, and symbols that unite citizens and create a sense of belonging. While national identity can evolve and adapt over time, it also faces significant challenges from globalization, internal divisions, migration, and technological change. Maintaining a strong and inclusive national identity is essential for the long-term stability and prosperity of any nation-state.
Some examples of countries that experience the erosion of national identity. Due to colonization and the influence of Western culture, traditional Hawaiian practices and the Hawaiian language have significantly declined. Chinese influence and control have led to restrictions on Tibetan religious practices and demographic changes, causing a decline in traditional Tibetan culture. Modernization and Western influence have led Mexico to the decline of indigenous languages and traditional agricultural practices. Kenya and Nigeria, these countries have clear tribal and religious differences, which can lead to a lack of national coherence and identity. Syria, ongoing conflict and external influences have significantly impacted national identity, with many people identifying more with sub-groups than the nation as a whole. These examples illustrate how various factors, such as colonization, modernization, and conflict, can contribute to the erosion of national identity.
Moral degradation can also weaken a nation. Moral degradation refers to a decline or erosion of ethical standards and values within a society or individual. We will discuss it briefly in the next session, biidhnillah."Following that, Cattleya recited a poignant poem, captivating with her expressive delivery and profound words,In whispers lost, a nation’s name,Eroded by the winds of change.Its spirit fades, a silent sigh,A tale of dreams that passed us by.
Citations & References:
- David McCrone & Frank Bechhofer, Understanding National Identity, 2015, Cambridge University Press
- David Miller, Citizenship and National Identity, 2000, Polity Press
- P. W. Preston, Political/Cultural Identity: Citizens and Nations in a Global Era, 1997, Sage
- Anthony D. Smith, Nationalism: Theory, Ideology, History, 2010, Polity Press
- John E. Joseph, Language and Identity: National, Ethnic, Religious, 2004, Palgrave
