Why are flags so controversial?

What is national pride all about and where does it stem from? Following a recent surge in the flying of the Union flag and St George's flag in parts of England this episode dives deeply into the meaning of national pride, the complexities and emotions it stirs up and the painful histories involved in the creation of nation states. From exploring a brief potted history of countries and colonialism to diving into some of the inherent human behaviours that stem from a need to belong, this episode is a chance to explore some of the behaviours, controversies and complexities that accompany flags and how we can move through some of these current challenges with a deeper sense of connection.

In this episode we mention the following:

• Beyond Civilisation - Daniel Quinn (PDF non-fiction)
• The Danger of a Single Story - Chimamanda Adiche (TedTalk)
• Tamar Nafar - Palestinian rapper and journalist (website)
• Notes on Nationalism, George Orwell (Essay)
• Politics JOE - Is the St George’s Cross Racist? (Video)
• Is England Flag Flying Campaign Patriotism or Provocation? (News report)
• Belonging, Owen Eastwood (Book)
• ‘This is Our Flag… We are Proud British Muslims’ (News article)
• The Wheel of the Year, Fiona Cook (Book)

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