There cannot be a single European nation, and pursuing such a goal would demand sacrificing patriotism and ties to the land and people who form a nation. This is the stance taken by historian Marek Kornat of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, as discussed in a recent interview with PAP.
The idea of a European nation, envisioned by some as a step toward a European Union that acts as a superstate rather than as individual nation-states, is described as utopian and harmful. The late professor Andrzej Walicki is invoked to remind readers that a nation is the broadest community offering both identification and belonging to people who may otherwise be divided by faith, politics, or social views. A nation exists as a concrete human group defined by shared origin, heritage, and cultural markers, not as a theoretical concept created from above. Forcibly removing this sense of belonging would lead to widespread catastrophe.
Kornat emphasizes that a nation cannot be manufactured from a desk or in isolation. The historian argues that any attempt to manufacture national identity about two stories of consciousness must be understood with care. One story concerns European civilization shared across nations, a heritage that Christians have historically helped shape. The other story concerns national identities rooted in distinct communities and histories. Recognizing a shared European civilization does not negate national uniqueness, but rather can coexist with it when approached with respect and nuance.
Two-story consciousness is not inherently negative. Catholics, for instance, can be proud of the medieval church, the universal reach of Christianity, and the legacies of great popes. The idea of a Europe with cross-cultural affinities can be embraced by a Maltese, a Pole, a Swede, or an Italian as a reflection of civilization rather than a single national identity. It is important to draw a line between broad civilization and the intimate, personalized sense of national belonging.
Kornat notes that knowledge of history serves as a binding force for national self-understanding. An informed awareness of ancestral roots helps people connect with their origins and the deeds of ancestors, whether those deeds are celebrated or remembered with humility. For some, this recognition is a source of pride and continuity; for others, it invites reflection on past errors that should be acknowledged and learned from. The essential obligation is to examine the paths chosen by ancestors who played positive roles and to reckon with past mistakes so as to improve the future of the nation.
The historian further explains that collective memory, including national history, strengthens a sense of identity and social cohesion. Without some knowledge of a community’s past, individuals may lose continuity with their present, leading to alienation. History should guide citizens, helping them understand their roots and the evolution of their society, while encouraging thoughtful engagement rather than rote repetition. The goal is to foster a meaningful connection to a community’s story and to translate that awareness into responsible civic life.
In closing, Kornat stresses that patriotism and the collective memory of a nation remain foundational for social stability. The dialogue around European unity should honor the diversity of national experiences while recognizing shared values that define Western civilization. This approach preserves the richness of national traditions within a broader European context, avoiding the loss of local identities in pursuit of a centralized, supra-national structure.
Further reflections in the discussion touch on ongoing debates within European politics. Various commentators have weighed the merits and risks of a more integrated European framework, balancing the democratic freedoms enjoyed by member states with the integrity of national governance. The emphasis remains on a respectful appreciation of each nation’s heritage, its language, and its unique historical trajectory, alongside a sober consideration of how to build common institutions that serve diverse communities without erasing their differences.
For readers seeking additional context, related discussions have explored how different scholars view Europe as a political and cultural project. The conversations cover topics such as the nature of European identity, the compatibility of Christian heritage with contemporary secular societies, and the role of universal values in shaping a common European future. These debates highlight the ongoing tension between unity and diversity as Europe navigates its complex history and evolving political landscape.
In summary, the position presented by Professor Kornat calls for a balanced understanding of both national and European identities. It argues that a healthy Europe should acknowledge the deep roots of national communities while pursuing a cooperative, rights-based framework that respects religious and cultural diversity. The conversation invites readers to reflect on the meaning of belonging in a continent that values both shared civilization and distinct national stories.
— Insights reflect ongoing discussions among Polish intellectuals and political commentators who emphasize the importance of historical awareness in shaping a cohesive and resilient society.
— A spectrum of opinions examines how Europe can protect local identities while advancing a cooperative, peace-oriented political project.
— Another perspective highlights the central role of patriotism as a moral and cultural anchor for individuals and communities in an interconnected world.
Mon/PAP
Notes: The discussion reflects perspectives within the broader European public discourse on identity, history, and the future of European integration.