Dear Editor,
The importance of ‘nation’ as a concept is sometimes referred to in the EU debate but often, I feel, confusing it with our modern idea of the 'nation state'. The thought-provoking article 'What is a Nation' in April's en mentions this problem.
Thinking about it, even in the context of the brutal Roman Empire, Jesus' concern for Israel as a nation didn't involve political independence. 'Nationhood' can flourish whatever the circumstances, including union with other nations – as in the UK.
Our national identity is bound up with Europe – geographically, historically, culturally, economically, and even spiritually. Nothing can change that fact. Europe is the place where we live, and the place where we come from as a nation. I feel our ties with Europe should be very close.
But, leaving aside disaffection with the EU, why do so many Britons feel a lack of connection with Europe? I'm sure it's complex, but a major factor must be our reluctance to learn foreign languages. This cuts us off from other cultures, restricts our identification with European neighbours, hinders communication, and feeds mistrust. It must also affect our attitude to the EU.
A letter in November’s en speculated on what Sir Winston Churchill might have thought about the EU. In today's world I think he might have been happy with the arrangement we had – i.e. full membership with a significant measure of independence. We had full access to the single market (extended eastwards due to British influence), a seat at the table, and powers of veto, together with opt-outs on closer political union, the Euro, and Schengen. Not to mention the sizeable financial rebate and the security, and stability, that belonging to a group brings. Have we thrown away the best of both worlds?
Yours sincerely,
