Green Nationalism: The Case for Integrating Ethnosymbolism

ABSTRACT This article makes the case for integrating elements of ethnosymbolism from Anthony D. Smith in the study of green nationalism. It presents a Smithian critique of Ernest Gellner's theory while accounting for criticisms of ethnosymbolism, partially grounding it in modernist foundations. Gellner's theoretical perspective is undoubtedly valuable, but this article argues that there are benefits in engaging with ethnosymbolism without abandoning modernisation theory entirely. Ethnosymbolism contributes to a more transformative account of green nationalism beyond the pure‐modernist narrative that inextricably links nationalism to environmentally destructive industry. In dissociating green nationalism from industrialisation, ethnosymbolism opens the analytical space for it to be a restorative force that can marshal climate action through longue durée symbolism and mass participation.