Questions
surges.
[15] Indeed, one study shows watching a video featuring the 2008 Olympic Opening Ceremonies increased nationalism among Chinese participants. But that video failed to raise support for
taking a warlike stance in China's territorial dispute with Japan over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands. Olympic achievement primed nationalism - but not all nationalist sentiments drive support for
conflict escalation.
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[16] Collectively, this research suggests that whether the Olympics trigger nationalist aggression depends on the values, norms or ideas people consider when they praise their country's athletic performance. People can celebrate national achievements without demanding conflict.
We know less about whether nationalism promotes cooperation
[17] Even if some Olympic-inspired nationalism discourages simmering tensions from boiling over, reducing conflict and promoting diplomatic cooperation are other matters entirely.Nationalists can oppose war without submitting to international organizations like the U.N., for example.
[18] Political science scholarship includes some promising hints about the connection between nationalism and conflict resolution. Affirming their own national identity increased the trust
between citizens from South Korea, Japan and China - helping to overcome historical rivalries. Study-abroad student trips increased Americans national pride including pride in U.S.sporting achievements - but reduced their foreign threat perceptions.[19] Moreover, some nationalists may seek superiority via moral authority, like the Norwegian policymakers who enact their identity as a peace-loving nation to advance gender equality and
help resolve global conflicts.[20] Still, research on nationalism and foreign policy tends to prioritize questions about war and conflict. So while we shouldn't leap to conclusions about how the Olympics fuel international
antagonism, we also shouldn't assume they will help reduce it. There is still much to learn about whether or when nationalism paves the way for peace.
Next Question
Next Reading
1) What is the main topic of the text?
A. Nationalism and international conflicts
B. The impact of the covid-19 pandemic on the Olympics
C. The connection between sports and politics D. The postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics
2) How do host countries showcase their national achievements during the opening ceremonies?
A. By featuring athletes from other countries B. Through extensive fireworks displays
C. Through elaborate cultural performances
D. By paying tribute to their healthcare systems
3) How does nationalism affect international threat perceptions, according to the text?
A. It promotes militaristic attitudes in the general public.B. It is associated with increased threat and support for international conflict.
C. It reduces threat perceptions and promotes diplomatic cooperation.
D. It has no impact on threat perceptions.
