Theoretical Reflections on Nationalism and its Condition in Ukraine

Abstract

Referring to a broad theoretical reflection on the phenomenon of nationalism, the author aims to identify/name the elements that shape contemporary Ukrainian nationalism. By means of an analysis of the program records of national groups, as well as the content of their postulates, together with a list of the level of social support for them, the text attempts to present the condition of contemporary Ukrainian nationalism, which is distinguished not only by its extreme attitudes, but is also a social and political movement for the benefit of the nation. In its radical form, nationalism has never enjoyed much support in Ukrainian society. After Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, it became more of a political nation-building movement that contributed to the emergence of the phenomenon of patriotism, which is not synonymous with ethnonationalism, but refers to its symbols.