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Examines links between religion and conflict; Yugoslavia, Algeria, Islam, and the Islamic world and international relations; 7 articles.

The ties between religion & nationalist sentiment can be seen in many cases, including the current conflict in Ireland, German nationalism which often drew support from Lutheranism, & the Anglican base of English maritime nationalism. Dependence of nationalist groups on religion does not necessarily entail solidarity on an international basis; the converse is often the case. Thus, the Church is a strong force in Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, & Rumania, yet there is much antagonism between religious & nationalistic forces in these countries. The development of Pan-Arabic sentiment has been based on the strong influence of Christian Arabs. Yet nationalistic movements may be in direct conflict with the aims of the larger society, & still draw strength from the religious base. In some cases, the religious hierarchy is in conflict with nationalistic movements. The leaders of the movements may even be nonreligious or openly atheistic. Yet these movements do not ignore, but rather make good use of religious feeling in their followers. Religious beliefs often contribute to the retention of national identity in a hostile environment, as in the US, where groups such as the Irish have lost their native language but retain their strong religious faith. Similarly, the Jews assimilated in large part the culture & languages of the countries to which they emigrated, but retained their religious faith as a common denominator. Religion can also be a source of linguistic affinity, as in the case of the Arab peoples, who would have few linguistic ties if not for the Koran. The relationship between religion & nationalism is a complex one, & the interplay of the two results in revolutionary & counterrevolutionary tendencies. HA Tr & Modified by B. Annesser.

Religious life in communist countries, concentrating on Confucianism in China and religious revival in the Soviet Union; 3 articles.