Reply #42: And I hate to rain on yours [View All]

[sangh0]

but nations are created just because a bunch of people say it exists.

WHen Arabs speak of an "Arab nation" they are using the word "nation" metaphorically, similar to the way Isrealis do when they speak of a "Jewish nation", and similar to the American funides who talk about the US being a "Christian nation". In each of those three instances, the word before "nation" is acting as an adjective, and not as part of a proper noun.

what else would make a Tunisian feel affinity an Iraqi?

The same thing that make me feel affinity for a Ukranian.

Why else would there be an Arab league - that notably doesn't admit countries on a geographic basis?

To pursue their political interests.

Why would a Palestinian Christian have anything in common with a Syrian if such was not the case?

Because they come from similar cultures, just as I would have things in common with a British Labor party activist. Also, there are many Americans who I feel do not share anything with me.

Why are such sharp distinctions drawn for those that live in Middle eastern society that are not parts of this Nation? e.g. Kurds, Sarcassians, Druze etc.

Because there aren't many Sarcassians in the US. Here, we have sharp distinctions between blacks, white, hispanics, asians, etc...