The psychodynamics of nationalism

To be attached to the subdivision, to love the little platoon we belong to in society, is the first principle (the germ as it were) of public affections. It is the first link in the series by which we proceed toward a love to our country and to mankind. Edmund Burke, Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790) Nothing said or done can reach My fanatic heart. Out of Ireland have we come. Great hatred, little room, Maimed us at the start. I carry from my mother's womb A fanatic heart. W.B. Yeats, ‘Remorse for Intemperate Speech’ (1932)     

民族主义及其需要制造对立面的心理根源

美国著名心理史学家兼精神分析专家洛温伯格教授在文中探讨了与民族主义有关的心理问题,其中两个要点似乎很值得赞赏。其一,民族主义有着深刻的心理根源,甚至说它扎根于人自婴幼儿时期便具有的本能也不为过;其二,民族主义由划分“我们”与“他们”而来,是相对于“他们”的存在而存在的,因此有树立对立面的心理需要。但这仅是一方面。文中还指出了问题的另一方面,那就是超越狭隘民族主义,实现民族间和睦相处是可能的,这就需要运用高度的政治智慧,需要互相协商妥协和耐心等待。[编者按]