A healthy nation is as unconscious of its nationality as a healthy man of his bones. But if you break a nation's nationality it will think of nothing else but getting it set again. (Preface)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A healthy nation takes its identity for granted; trouble arises when that identity is threatened.
- In plain terms
- Strong nations don't obsess over identity until it's under attack.
- What can you take from it?
- National unity is strongest when it feels natural.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What weakens national identity?
- Is nationalism always necessary?
Another view
Some strong nations remain highly conscious of identity for cultural preservation.
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