BLOOD AND BELONGING :: essays research papers fc

     This is a look back of the countersign, Blood and Belonging, by Michael Ignatieff. This paper will explain the subject of the book and its relevance, discuss Michael Ignatieffs methods and conclusions on the subject and finally include a in the flesh(predicate) critique of the book by the former of this paper.      The author of the book travels on what he terms "the half a dozen journeys." On these "journeys" he encounters different cultures, as he travels to six different coinciding areas of the world. He examines the unique musing of soilalism that each populace displays by interviewing various members of that particular society. The six areas that he travels to are specifically chosen for the clarity which nationalism is expressed in society. Nationalism is a factor contributing toward both gravel possible future instability in these areas.     These areas are former Yugoslavia (specificall y Croatia and Serbia), Germany, Ukraine, Quebec, Kurdistan and northern Ireland. According to Ignatieff, in Croatia and Serbia there is a desire for a wear identity between the two nations. The fear of losing ones national identity has caused social hatred. A terror so strong and historically persistent, it has driven population to a desperate state to do anything. This is a large endorser to the reasons for the extreme violence present there today. The author states, "A Croat, consequently, is mortal who is non a Serb. A Serb is someone who is not a Croat." This consultation profoundly expresses the short-sighted mentality present in their conflict.     In his travels in Germany, the author points out an important question. Does the nation make the state, or the state the nation? This question by far does not stop here, especially when Germany is the subject. The kernel of the German people is seen by some as aggressive and offensive, thus the existence of the German problem. If the nation makes the state then Germany will evermore be a threat. If the state makes the nation, then the aggressive nature of the German nation, which lead the world into two global wars, can be attach and redirected. The question has its roots and answers in the recent reunification of Germany.     The Ukraine is concerned with not being Russian. It is here Ignatieff receives a complete vision of what nationalism is. He states, "I understand what nationalism really is the dream that a unharmed nation could be like a congregation singing the uniform hymns, listening to the