NATIONALISM AND IDEOLOGY

Nationalism, says Miss Ward, in spite of the fact that it often contra- diets geographical and human realities, is the present-day manifestation of tribalism. It provides the same kinship, cohesion and economic benefits. It also labels ""us"" and ""them."" Capitalist supra-nationalism and communist internationalism are inadequate attempts at world systems, she maintains; our old stumbling-block, tribal patriotism, foredooms them. Many hold the idea that nationalism may be a necessary step in, the evolution of new nations from the colonial stage, but this book makes it clear that it is as much apolitical luxury for them as for the U. S., which, with its multi-national experience (the melting-pot), should really know better. At the national level we accept the rule of law and a hierarchy of responsibility. Yet in the international arena, where ""... this time, choices may be final,"" we leave government to the ""pressures and counterpressures of irresponsible power."" Virtually all the technical and organizational means are now at hand; to allow our primitive notions of ""national interest"" to stop Us from Creating a practical world system would be the ultimate barbarism. Solutions are developed concisely and enthusiastically, making this book a real pleasure to read. One only wishes one could share Miss Ward's hopefulness but she has an audience that will.