Asia’s simmering political tensions defy conventional wisdom.

Where Nationalism Still Matters

GUY SORMAN

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Each day seems to bring new provocations. 

The Korean president has set foot on Dokdo, soon followed by a group of Japanese nationalists. China has sent a naval detachment to the Spratlys. Japanese police have arrested a group of Chinese on Senkaku. 

Of course, current circumstances play a role in exacerbating these conflicts. 

Asia’s economy is slowing down; its governments are variously weak (Japan), undergoing transition (South Korea, China) or in search of legitimacy (Vietnam, China). 

But that should be small comfort, because aggressive nationalism can be an outlet for nations facing such uncertainties. 

In Asia, neither economics nor democracy dissolves nationalist zeal.

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