Nationalism, Memory, and Their Political and Cultural Manifestations in Bulgaria

• In Event: Cold Memories, Hot Memories: Constructing Memory Culture in Post-Communist Bulgaria

Abstract

According to various criteria, such as corruption, death rate and demographic decline, free speech and independent media, media literacy, and trust in the independence of the judicial system, Bulgaria holds low or the last position in the European Union. At the same time, in Bulgaria the populist nationalist parties are gaining support, and the manifestations of nationalism are increasing. Analyzing recent examples of political and cultural manifestations of nationalism, I argue that nationalism is a symptom of ideology, that is, economic and political instability as well as cultural dislocation cause people to seek stability in national identity. This makes nationalism a symptom of deeper ideological struggles rather than an authentic expression of cultural identity. In addition, based on concepts advanced by Slavoj Zizek, I further contend that nationalism often carries a hidden, excessive enjoyment that binds people together—such as shared myths, rituals, and even collective hatred of an "other." This enjoyment makes nationalism more than just a rational political choice; it becomes an emotional and libidinal investment.

Author

• Yana Hashamova, Ohio State U