Nationalism and Religion: Examining Secularism and Islamic Nationalism

This report examines the complex relationship between nationalism and religion, with a specific focus on the compatibility of secularism within the Islamic faith. The paper begins by highlighting the significance of religious identity in the context of nationalism, particularly within Arab countries. It then discusses the challenges of secularism, using Turkey as a case study, and how Islamic forces can impact the political landscape. The report concludes that nationalism and religion are closely intertwined, especially within the Islamic faith, where religious doctrines hold significant importance. The analysis is supported by references to relevant scholarly articles and provides a concise overview of the ongoing debate surrounding secularism and nationalism.

Running head: NATIONALISM AND RELIGION
Nationalism and religion
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

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Table of Contents
Introduction....................................................................................................................2
Discussion......................................................................................................................2
Conclusion......................................................................................................................2
References:.....................................................................................................................3

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Introduction
The idea of nationalism is found to be closely related with the idea of religion.
This is due to the reason that the individuals of the society attach more importance to
their religion while dealing with questions of national security. The purpose of this
paper is to understand if the idea of a secular nationalism possible in the context of the
Islamic faith.
Discussion
Within the region of Arab countries, it can be noticed that the aspect of Arab
nationalism takes a precedence. The people living their attach a lot of significance to
their cultural identity. However, with the rise of Islamism in the Arab society, led to
the rise of many Islamic forces who tried to control the political functioning of the
concerned countries (Nafi, 2008).
Turkey is considered to be one of the most developed countries of the Middle
East region due to its idea of secularism. However, even in this country, the aspect of
nationalism is not secular. Often times riots and clashes break out in the country based
on the religious identity of the people.Erdogan can be seen to be advocating more
more Islamic doctrines and religions, thereby degrading the secular ideas of Kamal
Ataturk and his ties with western philosophy (Peterson, 2017). Thus, it can be said
that nationalism cannot be secular in nature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be noted that the ideology of nationalism and religion are
considered to be synonymous. The people of the Islam faith give significant

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importance to their religious doctrines.

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References:
Nafi, B. (2008). Nationalism vs Islam. Retrieved 2 March 2020, from
https://www.aljazeera.com/focus/arabunity/2008/02/200852519420197834.html
Peterson, S. (2017). In Turkey, Erdoğan fans an Islamic nationalism to build
Ottoman-style influence. Retrieved 2 March 2020, from
https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2017/0222/In-Turkey-Erdogan-
fans-an-Islamic-nationalism-to-build-Ottoman-style-influence