Out of Two Incompatible Concepts: The Rise of Nationalism Against the Liberal Economic World Order

Today, we stand at a critical juncture in global politics and economics. The liberal economic world order, which has been the cornerstone of international relations since the aftermath of World War II, now faces a formidable challenge from the resurgence of nationalism. This article explores the concept of liberal economic world order (LEWO), its gradual dismantling in the United States, and the rise of nationalism as a response to the perceived injustices and inequities created by LEWO.

The Foundations of the Liberal Economic World Order (LEWO)

According to Wikipedia, the liberal international economic order (LIEO) is a system organized around principles of open markets, multilateral institutions, liberal democracy, and American leadership. Established in the post-World War II era, it has been associated with the Pax Americana. However, the current narrative of government transfer power and the changing dynamics of the U.S. political administration reveal a different story—one of significant economic and social inequalities.

The Inaugural Address of a New Era

In his 2017 inaugural address, the newly elected president emphasized the transfer of power back to the American people. He highlighted the perceived imbalance where a small group of elites reaped the rewards of government while the majority bore the costs. This stark contrast is a core element in the resurgence of nationalism. The president called for a return to a system where the nation serves its citizens rather than the citizens serving the nation.

The Gradual Dismantling of the Liberal Economic World Order (LEWO)

The LEWO has been a process of gradual dismantling, resulting in the erosion of America's industrial base and the shift towards a welfare democracy for many and a technocratic paradise for a privileged few. This has led to a significant loss of middle-class wealth, with industries moving abroad and infrastructure falling into disrepair. The economic landscape has shifted, but what remains is an economic order that is no longer sustainable.

Nationalism as a Reaction to Economic Injustices

The question posed is which concept will prevail: the continuation of LEWO or the rise of nationalism. Thermodynamics suggest that entropy will prevail, but this is not the narrative that resonates with the American people. Instead, we see a powerful movement that seeks to place the nation's interests first. This is a response to the perceived failure of LEWO to address the core issues of economic justice, equality of opportunity, and the basic necessities of life such as good schools, safe neighborhoods, and job security.

The Role of Media and Consciousness Shaping

The media plays a crucial role in shaping national consciousness. In the case of LEWO, the narrative is often controlled by those who have no stake in the economic life of the country but have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. The international consensus of government functionaries has little incentive to defy LEWO, as the world remains a parasite on America's economic and military might. This suggests a lack of alternative voices and the need for a shift in political and economic consciousness.

The Path Forward: Nationalism and Economic Justice

The path forward is clear for those who value capitalism, justice, and equality of opportunity. It is a call to defend American interests and promote economic prosperity in proportion to one's work. The concept of globalization must be reignited to ensure that all nations, including advanced economies like India, England, and Germany, prioritize their own national interests. Each country is more than a boundary on a map; it is a society functioning as a system, and it is essential to celebrate and recognize one's nationhood.

As Francisco Goya's The Shootings of May 3, 1808 portrays, we must stand together and work towards a future where countries like America, India, Mexico, Spain, and England take back control of their governments and prioritize their own national interests. The power of nationalism lies in its ability to unite and inspire, and it is this collective power that can drive a new era of economic justice and prosperity.

Is the liberal economic world order destined to fail? The answer lies in the hands of the people. It is a call to arms for a new era where national consciousness, economic justice, and patriotism reign supreme.