Includes bibliographical references (p281 - 304) and index.

Introduction: the tenacity of nationalisms -- Making sense of nationhood -- Grounded nationalisms and the sociology of the long run -- Empires and nation-states -- Nationalisms and imperialisms -- What makes a small nation? -- Nationalisms and statehood in Ireland -- Nationalisms and wars in the Balkans -- Balkan piedmont? -- From sacrifice to prestige -- Globalisation and nationalist subjectivities -- Grounded nationalisms and the privatisation of security -- Conclusion: the omnipotence of nationalisms.

"This book shows, the two forces have developed together through modern history. Malesevic challenges dominant views which see nationalism as a declining social force. He explains why the recent escalations of populist nationalism throughout the world do not represent a social anomaly but are, in fact, a historical norm. By focusing on ever-increasing organisational capacity, greater ideological penetration and networks of micro-solidarity, Malesevic shows how and why nationalism has become deeply grounded in the everyday life of modern human beings. The author explores the social dynamics of these grounded nationalisms via an analysis of varied contexts, from Ireland to the Balkans. His findings show that increased ideological diffusion and the rising coercive capacities of states and other organisations have enabled nationalism to expand and establish itself as the dominant operative ideology of modernity Provided by publisher.