Research Group Session 2: Traumatized Nationalism and Its Effects on Democracy (Invite Only)

Session Submission Type: Research Group

Abstract

The Research Group "Traumatized Nationalism and its Effects on Democracy" is dedicated to dissecting the intricate relationship between collective national trauma and its repercussions on the functioning of democratic institutions. This interdisciplinary consortium brings together scholars, researchers, and experts from fields such as political science, psychology, history, sociology, and international relations. The primary objective of this research group is to unravel the multifaceted connections between traumatic historical events, collective memory, and the evolution of nationalist sentiments within a democratic framework. By delving into case studies from various regions and time periods, the group endeavors to identify patterns, triggers, and mechanisms that link traumatic experiences - such as wars, conflicts, colonization, and oppressive regimes - to the formation and transformation of nationalist ideologies. The research group operates on the premise that nationalism, when influenced by trauma, can manifest in ways that both strengthen and potentially undermine democratic systems. Through meticulous analysis, the group aims to shed light on the ways in which collective traumas can either galvanize a sense of unity and resilience or foster divisions and exclusions within a society.

Key areas of exploration for the research group include:
1. Narratives of Trauma and Identity Formation: Investigating how historical traumas are incorporated into a nation's collective memory, and how these narratives contribute to shaping and reinforcing nationalist identity.

2. Political Behavior and Mobilization: Examining how traumatized nationalism influences citizen participation, political engagement, and the rise of populist movements within democratic contexts.

3. Democratic Erosion and Resilience: Exploring the potential for traumatic nationalism to fuel polarization, intolerance, and erosion of democratic norms, as well as strategies for safeguarding democratic institutions in the face of such challenges.

4. Transnational and Comparative Analysis: Conducting cross-country and transnational studies to uncover commonalities and distinctions in the impact of traumatized nationalism on democracies, taking into account diverse cultural, historical, and social contexts.

5. Policy Implications and Conflict Resolution: Providing insights into policy interventions and conflict resolution strategies that can mitigate the negative effects of traumatized nationalism on democratic societies.

Sub Unit

• Research Groups / Traumatized Nationalism and Its Effects on Democracy

Discussant

• Thomas Campbell University of Nevada - Reno

Participants

• Emmanuel Adiole Lonestar College Houston North

• Tayyaba Atiq GIFT University

• Alina Khamatdinova Washington State University

• Jadie Minhas Arizona State University

• Paula Mohan UW-Madison

• SERGE REMY NGABA EBOMBO

• James M. Quirk American University

• Gemma Sala Grinnell College

• Sofia Tipaldou Panteion University, Athens

Session Organizer

• Nicolas Hernandez University of Delaware