Why people recommend it
Imagined Communities by Benedict Anderson is a seminal political science and sociology book that investigates the origins and rise of nationalism. On the podcast The Ezra Klein Show in the episode titled Fareed Zakaria on Where Russia’s War in Ukraine Stands — and Much More, which aired on June 2, 2023, guest Fareed Zakaria shared his insights on international relations and global affairs. When asked for book recommendations regarding nationalism and other countries, Fareed Zakaria recommended Benedict Anderson's book. He pointed out that it is still a remarkable book, despite having been written in the early 1980s, because it possesses a unique ability to explain why people are so deeply nationalistic. The recommendation underscores the enduring relevance of Anderson's theories on how national identity is constructed and shared among populations, making it a vital read for those trying to understand the powerful emotional and political forces driving loyalty to nations around the globe. Zakaria's endorsement highlights the book's continued importance as a foundational text for scholars, students, and curious readers striving to comprehend the complex phenomenon of national pride and allegiance in the modern era.
Who recommended it
- Fareed Zakaria Recommended
Fareed Zakaria — 1 mention
“and so the first one is Benedict Anderson's imagined communities which is still I think it was written in the early 80s but it's still this remarkable book that is able to explain why people are so nationalistic”