Does nationalism promote the aims of those who embrace it? A simple thought-experiment involving the costs and benefits of group action suggests that the case against nationalism and its principle institution, the nation-state, is stronger than most classical liberals realize.

Anthony de Jasay (1925–2019) was a Research Fellow at the Independent Institute and the author of numerous books including The State, Against Politics, and Justice and its Surroundings.
EconomyGovernment and PoliticsLaw and LibertyNationalismPhilosophy and ReligionPolitical TheoryPublic ChoiceSocialism, Communism, and Collectivism
Other Independent Review articles by Anthony de Jasay
Summer 2010 The Maximizing State
Fall 2006 When Fair Is Not Just and Just Is Not Fair
Winter 2004/05 Liberalism, Loose or Strict
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