Thursday, 6 February 2014
Nationalism dividing Europe in 2014... Similarities to lead-up to WW1?
The Ukraine is in democratic crisis and the rise of nationalism is tearing the country apart - some supporting a move towards Europe (EU) and others preferring strengthened economic relations with Russia. Can you find any similarities between Ukraine currently and the desires of Serbia leading up to WW1?
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I think the title of this video puts forward and interesting question, somewhat similar to the question we had on class about freedom fighters and terrorists. In this case, it seems to me like it has started out as a democratic movement, but the right-wing extremism seems to be gathering more momentum, which is undeniably concerning. It will be interesting to see how far this extremism goes and to see if it becomes a majority movement. Then we may see how much of a lesson this world has really learned, particularly in the case if it turns into majority right-wing extremism. If this were to happen would we see a repeat of history?
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting that you say that the right-wing extremist group is 'gaining momentum'. As social and economic conditions deteriorate right-wing fanaticism increases... This strongly supports one side of the debate within history over whether it is the historical figure (e.g. Hitler) or the conditions (economic calamity and social misconceptions about nationalism) that determine the course of history. But you are correct to be concerned about whether humanity will learn from the lessons of history, or at least, to what extent might history repeat itself - but I don't believe the world ever learns nothing from history. I don't believe that we will see here Slavic nationalism triggering another world war due to the lack of militaristic and imperialistic rivalry between European nations - they have mutual economic interests now.
DeleteI agree with you when you say that you doubt the likelihood of another world war and that the world doesn't learn nothing from history. What I am interested in is that is there was to be a situation in which another country chooses to intervene in the situation at Ukraine, how would they go about it? Most likely, I believe they would attempt to go by it diplomatically. However, the result of that would depend on the ideas and attitudes of both parties involved; problems such as this are never easily solved.
ReplyDeleteYes, countries are going about it diplomatically to try and lure the Ukraine - Western Europe and Russia - but it will come down to the economic imperative of the Ukraine in the end, I think. Nationalistic the critical mass might want greater independence from Russia, but it seems they are economically linked, and the EU don't seem to be offering any economic incentives as they are financially in a 'pickle' themselves. But, what I find interesting is the extremist wings that are fuelling a nationalistic surge against close Russian ties. This is what may be equated to the beginnings of WWI. If this type of escalation occurs you may see a deterioration of diplomacy... Let's hope not as you say.
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