Really Existing Nationalisms

An impressive re-examination of the theories of Marx and Engels on nationalism

Really Existing Nationalisms challenges the conventional view that Marx and Engels lacked the theoretical resources needed to understand nationalism. It argues that the two thinkers had a sophisticated insight into the subject, and that the reasoning behind their policy towards specific national movements was often subtle and sensitive to the ethical issues at stake.

Erica Benner identifies arguments in Marx and Engels’ writings that can help us to think more clearly about national identity and conflict today.