Nationalism as collective narcissism

Dr Aleksandra Cichocka presents her research on nationalism and narcissism

Traditional conceptualisations of nationalism focus on the need for intergroupdomination. In this talk Dr Aleksandra Cichocka argues that current politics are rather driven by the need for recognition of the greatness of one’s nation.

In psychological literature, the need for the nation’s appreciation is captured by the concept of collective narcissism—a belief in in-group greatness contingent on external recognition. Dr Cichocka will demonstrate that collective narcissism is associated with support for national populist parties and policies and also review the empirical evidence for the intergroup and intragroup concomitants of collective narcissism.

The talk will demonstrate that collective narcissism benefits neither out-group nor in-group members. Instead, it helps manage psychological needs of the individual. Dr Cichocka concludes that collective narcissism might undermine social cohesion both within and between groups.