Nationhood & Nationalism
As we move closer to another National Day, many Singaporeans seem to be questioning the idea behind the celebrations, as they feel that they have been left out of the government's plans for economic development.
Yet, I see a purpose for all the money and pageantry. For many still see that as a way to feel part of Singapore. It is kind of like the idea of National Service, which goes beyond mere defence of the nation, but serves to bond the male citizens of Singapore. In the same way, it provides an avenue for new citizens to feel a part of Singapore. Without such nation-based activities to feel a sense of belonging, they might feel even less connected.
Some question the point of self-sacrifice, when foreigners are the ones who seem to milk the rewards of these sacrifices. However, perhaps one should examine the thoughts of nation-building and nationhood. It is after all, about giving of oneself for the better good of the whole (sacrifice), with the community being driven by one purpose. Nationhood fails when people become self-centred and self-motivated, for a nation consists of a group of people working together.
So, perhaps the roots of the disenfranchisement lie not with the foreigners, but with the fact that a significant portion of our population feels left out of the government's plans. They feel the need to be consulted, and for things to be debated; not for laws and regulations to be shoved down their throats. They are not wrong, for a nation is a community of people, who share a common purpose or ideology. The psychological strength of a nation thus starts to falter when citizens start to question national ideology.
Yet, Singapore is not unique here. Step into any global city, and the cosmopolitan make-up tends to cause locals to question the influx of immigrants. Perhaps Singapore's case is slightly more extreme, but we are still far from the worst. Many countries are also struggling with the question of national identity in this age where some corporations wield more power than whole countries. Many of these countries have the privilege of many hundred years of history, or a common cultural heritage, and yet they struggle.
So, is nationhood a lost cause or out-moded proposition? I think not. For corporations exist purely for economic goals, and humans are driven by more diverse drivers than just economics. So how does Singapore move forward and solve this disenfranchisement? I still think it involves a frank and honest conversation, not one where they insist on their point of view, but where real dialogue occurs. Without which, I fear that this country may become an empty shell, with less ideals of nationhood than General Electric or Apple.