Meaning: The quote "Hand in hand with nationalist economic isolationism, militarism struggles to maintain the sovereign state against the forward march of internationalism" by Christian Lange succinctly captures the complex interplay between nationalism, militarism, and internationalism in the context of global politics. Christian Lous Lange was a Norwegian political scientist and historian who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1921 for his efforts in promoting internationalism and disarmament. His quote reflects a deep understanding of the tensions and conflicts that arise when countries prioritize their national interests and sovereignty in the face of increasing globalization.

Nationalist economic isolationism refers to the policy of a country seeking to protect its domestic industries and economy by imposing trade barriers, tariffs, and other restrictions on international trade. This approach is often driven by a desire to safeguard national economic interests and preserve the identity and autonomy of the nation-state. However, as Lange suggests, this isolationist economic stance can be closely linked to militarism, which emphasizes the use of military power to defend and assert national sovereignty.

Militarism, as an ideology, places a strong emphasis on the role of the military in shaping and advancing national interests. This can manifest in the form of military build-ups, aggressive foreign policies, and the glorification of armed conflict. In the context of nationalist economic isolationism, militarism becomes a means of safeguarding the nation's economic and political independence from external influences. The military is often seen as the ultimate guarantor of a nation's sovereignty, especially when it is perceived to be under threat from international forces.

On the other hand, internationalism represents a contrasting ideology that emphasizes cooperation, interconnectedness, and the breaking down of barriers between nations. It promotes the idea of a global community where countries work together to address common challenges and pursue mutual interests. Internationalism challenges the notion of absolute sovereignty and advocates for a more integrated and cooperative approach to global governance.

Lange's quote suggests that militarism struggles to maintain the sovereign state in the face of internationalism's forward march. This conveys the idea that the pursuit of national sovereignty and autonomy, often through nationalist economic isolationism and militarism, comes into conflict with the broader trend towards international cooperation and interconnectedness. The struggle to maintain the sovereign state reflects the tension between the desire for national independence and the realities of an increasingly interdependent world.

In the contemporary context, Lange's quote remains relevant as countries grapple with the challenges of balancing national sovereignty with the imperatives of international cooperation. The rise of populist and nationalist movements in various parts of the world has led to a resurgence of protectionist policies and a renewed emphasis on militarism as a means of asserting national power and autonomy. At the same time, the forces of globalization, technological advancement, and transnational challenges such as climate change and pandemics highlight the need for countries to work together and transcend traditional boundaries.

In conclusion, Christian Lange's quote encapsulates the intricate dynamics at play in the realm of international relations, where nationalist economic isolationism, militarism, and the forward march of internationalism intersect and clash. It serves as a reminder of the enduring tensions between national sovereignty and global interconnectedness, shedding light on the complex choices and trade-offs that shape the conduct of nations in the modern world.