Abstract

This chapter presents a framework for analyzing the role of nationalism in the ethics of immigration, particularly in relation to inclusion and integration. Recognizing the significance of nationalism in real-world migration politics, this study contends that ethical accounts must prioritize the analysis of this phenomenon. To achieve this, the argument in this chapter is structured around an analytical distinction among three prominent narratives regarding nationalism and the nation-state relationship: the Propertarian Account, the Functionalist Account, and the Majority Rights Account. Examining the implications of these narrative frameworks for immigration policy ethics, the chapter delves into potential methods of “moderating” each narrative. This entails exploring how these arguments can be rendered more compatible with liberal and democratic values, specifically with the principle of moral equality among individuals. By offering an argumentative map that highlights nationalism's distinct contribution to the ethics of immigration, this chapter provides a comprehensive framework for approaching the complex and contentious issue at hand. It aims to foster thoughtful and nuanced discussions about the interplay between nationalism, ethics, and immigration, shedding light on potential avenues for reconciling divergent perspectives.