Globalization, Nationalism, Capitalism

Nationalism, a simultaneously modern and archaic institution, is one of the most unifying and dynamic forces to ever exist. Its grapple on mankind has caused numerous transitions and conflicts. However, many sociologists subscribe to the notion that nationalism is simply a modern force that has actually been the result of free market economics, such as capitalism, and the ongoing greater global integration. Many schools of thought argue that nationalism is in itself an effect, not a cause, of free market economics and globalization. On the other side, sociologists have argued that nationalism is intrinsically ancient and has caused many of the technological and economic shifts that have shaped the modern world.