Question

What are the essential elements of Nationality?

Answer 1

Hint: Nationality is obtained by birth through inheritance from one's parents. The word ‘nation’ has been derived from a Latin term ‘nasci’ which refers to a group of people belonging to the same place.

Complete Step by Step Answer: The essential elements of Nationality are as follows:
1. Geographical unity is an important factor as it creates a common bond among people. Absence of a common motherland marked out by geographical boundaries; people cannot have a basis for their national feelings.
2. The word 'Nation' etymologically signifies a person belonging to the same race; it is natural for the people of one race to feel one as they have many similarities among themselves.
3. Common interest also plays an important role in creating national unity. These are only the common interests which unite the people who have a different language, culture, religion etc. People often join together for the protection of their common interest and that is when they feel united.
4. Language is also an essential element. It is a means to share our views. Therefore, those who do not have a common language, are strangers to one another.
5. Those people who have a common religion, feel close to each other and whenever anything is done to harm their religion, they get together to protect it. So, a religious factor also strengthens national buds.
6. Common political aspirations also bring unity among the people. A country may have cultural, religious, linguistic and other types of unity, but unless people have common political aims and aspirations, nationhood cannot be reached.
7. A common shared history of a state may enable people to feel proud of their past glory and become one.
8. A common culture is also a vital unifying factor. The people living together over time develop a common culture or way of life through their food habits, ethical values, religious beliefs and general attitudes towards life.

Note: Students often confuse themselves with Nationality and Citizenship. Nationality cannot be changed while Citizenship can be changed. Citizenship is a legal status of an individual whereas Nationalism is inherited by birth.