Сoncepts West–Nation–Abendland in German sociopolitical discourse
https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6339-2020-2-94-107
Abstract
Drawing from the methodology of historical semantics and conceptual history, this article addresses an intricate interconnection between the concepts: West, Nation, and Abendland in German sociopolitical discourse. Regarding concepts both as indicators and factors of sociopolitical “we-groups” makes it possible to take a new look at a wide range of social and political processes in contemporary FRG. A historical perspective on how these basic concepts acquire new meanings and build semantic interconnections will help better understand Germany’s sociopolitical experience after World War II. I will demonstrate how semantic interconnections between the chosen concepts change in key texts of German political thought, public debates, and political programs. First, I will focus on FRG’s postwar integration in western political institutions and attempt to overcome traditional self-understanding as a “cultural nation”. I will also indicate the role of the concept West in this process. Then, I will explore how the concept Abendland, which has a long intellectual history, becomes popular in sociopolitical discourse at the beginning of the 21st century. I will demonstrate how this concept ascribes new meanings and resonates with the concept of “cultural nation” in “Alternative for Germany’s” rhetoric and political program.
About the Author
A. N. Yurin
Russian State University for the Humanities
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Alexander N. Yurin
bld. 6, Miusskaya Square, Moscow, Russia, 125993
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Review
For citations:
Yurin A.N. Сoncepts West–Nation–Abendland in German sociopolitical discourse. RSUH/RGGU Bulletin Series "Political Science. History. International Relations". 2020;(2):94-107. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2073-6339-2020-2-94-107
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