Untidy Compromises

This chapter aims to remind ourselves that one-sided political theories are bound to lead to moral and political calamities and to encourage a search for a set of compromises that fit the needs of our age. It notes that we have a lot to learn from the failures and successes of the last century; the most important lesson of all is to be more critical of our own beliefs and more open to those of others. The chapter then reviews two of the leading ideologies of the last century, liberal democracy and nationalism. From each of them, worthwhile human values and social strategies are exerted. The chapter identifies with nationalism's most extreme expressions: brutal neoliberalism, on the one hand, Nazism, and fascism on the other hand. Ultimately, the chapter draws out some of the valuable and constructive aspects of nationalism, arguing that they reflect a scope of human needs and aspirations that should be considered. It presents the case for nationalism, trying to highlight its importance in any future social construct.