Anthony Smith

The concept of nations and nationalism are present in the modern world, which one can see through the form of symbols, cultural traditions, commemorations, and institutions. National consciousness and nationalist ideology provide a stable system and framework for collective activity. Anthony Smith and Ernest Renan approach the concept of a nation from different perspectives as they closely focus on the origin and definition of a nation. Their views provide a deeper insight into the concept of a nation. Smith and Renan outline their perspectives on the nation by analyzing how nations are formed and maintained and how nations are commonly defined and viewed.
Anthony Smith approaches the concept of a nation from an idealized view. He defines …show more content…
He does not define a nation using objective criteria, such as race, language, or religion, but he believed that the desire of a nation was the true motive behind forming and being one. A nation is a spiritual principle, and it is not absolute. This view contrasts Smith’s view because Smith views it in terms of objective criteria. Renan believes criteria, such as language, to define a nation as being a constraint. Renan states, “the modern nation is therefore a historical result brought about by a series of convergent facts.” Through this statement, Renan is stating that the people founded the principle of nationality and the concept of a nation. He defines a nation as being “a large-scale solidarity, constituted by the feeling of the sacrifices that one has made in the past and of those that one is prepared to make in the future.” By analyzing this definition, one could state that the past and the present are the most important aspects to defining and forming a nation. By having common sufferings and remembering a past legacy, people are brought together. By having a desire to continue the heritage and continue to protect and continue a common life, the nation will remain solid for the