Tagore’s Critique of Nationalism
- “Patriotism cannot be our final spiritual shelter; my refuge is humanity. I will not buy glass for the price of diamonds, and I will never allow patriotism to triumph over humanity as long as I live.”- Rabindranath Tagore.
- Rabindranath Tagore criticized narrow expressions of nationalism and patriotism, advocating for a broader sense of humanity.
- He distinguished between opposing western imperialism and rejecting western civilization, emphasizing the importance of learning from diverse cultures.
- Tagore cautioned against hostility towards foreign influences, promoting cultural openness while maintaining roots in one’s heritage.
Nationalism and Pluralism Class 11 Polity Notes
Nationalism and Pluralism: Once the idea of one-culture-one state was abandoned, Nationalism and Pluralism became necessary to consider ways by which different cultures and communities can survive and flourish within a country. Measures for recognizing and protecting the identity of cultural minorities living within their territory were introduced by many democratic societies today.
Different groups must be recognized as members of the national community. This means that national identity must be defined in a way that recognizes the significance and unique contribution of all cultural communities within the state. Although it is hoped that granting groups recognition and protection will satisfy their aspirations, some groups may continue to demand independence. This may appear paradoxical because globalization is spreading throughout the world, but nationalist aspirations continue to motivate many groups and communities.