Prof Dominic Bryan
Professor, School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics
TEDx Talk Title - 'Everyday Nationalism and History: Is there a future in the past?'
The stories of the past, defined by our views on what ‘our’ history consists of, play a vital role in demarcating the boundaries of a nation. From the history that is taught in school; to the landscape of memorials that surround us; to the museums we visit; to the endless historical TV dramas; not to mention the flags and anthems to which we show loyalty, history defines our national identity. History and nation are a part of our everyday lives. And yet nationalism is extraordinary divisive and at the heart of many conflicts around the world. We have seen an increasing inward looking patriotism and protectionism with politicians selling ‘loyalty to the nation’ and a nations ‘greatness’ as solution to a wide range of problems. This talk will suggest that nationalism is the problem not the solution. I will argue that pride in ones nation maybe misplaced. We know that the idea of the nation is a contemporary invention, an imagined community. We know it was driven by empires and resistance to empires and enormous levels of violence. We know that all of our nations are complex multi-cultural spaces. And we know that global problems – the environment, poverty, war – need global, humanitarian, solutions. I will suggest that we need critically understand what nationalism is, moving beyond ‘our history’. And I wonder where we can create a greater global sense of cohesion based on a common humanity and human rights.
About the Speaker
Professor Dominic Bryan is a distinguished anthropologist at Queen’s University Belfast, renowned for his influential work on identity, ritual, and conflict in Northern Ireland. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Bryan has explored how symbols, parades, and public rituals shape group identity and intergroup relations, particularly in contested civic spaces. His research has had a profound impact on public policy, notably contributing to the establishment of the Parades Commission and as co-Chair of the Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition Commission informing debates on flags, commemorations, and public order.
Bryan’s scholarship is deeply interdisciplinary, bridging anthropology, history, law, and conflict studies. His landmark monograph Orange Parades (Pluto Press 2000) and numerous policy reports have become foundational texts in understanding the symbolic landscape of Northern Ireland. He has also led and collaborated on major research projects, including work on peaceful processions in Scotland and the Groundswell Project in East Belfast.
Beyond academia, Bryan is a committed public intellectual, engaging with communities, policymakers, and media to foster dialogue and peacebuilding. His work exemplifies the power of ethnographic research to inform real-world change. As a mentor, collaborator, and thought leader, Professor Bryan continues to shape the field of political anthropology and remains a vital voice in discussions on identity, memory, and reconciliation.
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