Iarfhlaith Watson | University College Dublin (original) (raw)

Papers available online by Iarfhlaith Watson

Nations and Nationalism, 2022

Although nationalism has been identified as the dominant ideology of the modern era, and environm... more Although nationalism has been identified as the dominant ideology of the modern era, and environmentalism is the 21st century rising star, few studies address the relationship between them. The consensus seems to be that they are

JOURNAL OF MULTILINGUAL AND MULTICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT, 2024

This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and belonging, with a focus on I... more This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and belonging, with a focus on Irish-speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities in Ireland. The research includes twelve respondents with diverse backgrounds in terms of nationality and/or ethnicity. We examine whether the language gives them a sense of belonging to Ireland, but also if they experience any exclusion on the basis that it does not ‘belong’ to them. Our research is qualitative and we analyse the data through the lens of nationalism studies. We suggest that Irish can be an important tool in the hands of speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities, a power that they can use in diverse ways, including to foster integration, avoid alienation, legitimise their presence in the country and fight against forms of discrimination. Yet, questions arise when the national heritage is passed on by individuals that many people do not consider ‘national’. Do clashes occur between people who consider themselves to be of Irish ethnicity and nationality and Irish speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities? What are the reasons for the clashes and what are the consequences? This study offers some answers while pointing to the needs of more investigation of the subject.

Frontiers in Sociology, 2022

What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the a... more What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the available literature, including works by prominent thinkers Ulrich Beck and Bruno Latour, identify it as a collective global challenge rather than a local and national one. But is it really so? This article develops an original theoretical framework integrating the theory of "reflexive modernity", theories of nationalism, and case studies of green nationstates. The goal is to change the observation point and search for original solutions to the climate crisis. Building on this theoretical framework, this study puts forward the following claims: () climate change is undeniably a global phenomenon, but its causes are national. It can be traced back to a small number of top polluting nation-states (the US, China, Russia, India, Japan and EU) whose historical share of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, the main cause for global warming, surpasses %; () Most of these nation-states are entrenched in Resource Nationalism (RN), a form of nationalism that sees the environment as a resource to exploit; () there exist forms of sustainable nationalism, which this study conceptualizes as Reflexive Green Nationalism (RGN); () the solution to climate change is local rather than global. It depends on top polluters' capacity to re-modernize and develop RGN; and () according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, if emissions are not reduced by % by , the world is likely to cross the tipping point into a global climate catastrophe. Therefore, updating these nation-states and their ideology to more sustainable forms is humanity's best shot at halting the climate crisis.

Frontiers Research Topics, 2024

2nd Edition of the book

Frontiers in Political Science, 2023

Editorial on the Research Topic Beyond the frontiers of political science: is good governance pos... more Editorial on the Research Topic Beyond the frontiers of political science: is good governance possible in cataclysmic times?

Frontiers in Sociology, 2023

In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the ... more In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the intensive activities of solidarity at the local, national, and transnational levels, the increase in scientific cooperation, the implementation of assistance policies by states, and the various endeavors of NGOs, religious communities, private organizations, wealthy and less wealthy donors, and charities to support individuals and groups a ected by it. It is argued that the pandemic is not only a tragedy that revealed some of the disintegrative processes of global risk society but is also a matchless opportunity for acknowledging what can be (and is) done in the globalized world when guided by positives such as cooperation, coordination, and solidarity. Discussing the theories of globalization, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism, with special attention to Ulrich Beck's theory of reflexive society, the core point of this article is that, considering upcoming global threats of even greater magnitude, such as climate change, potentially deadlier pandemics, and nuclear conflicts, a new world order based on cooperation, coordination and solidarity between nation-states is not only desirable but necessary for survival.

Society, 2023

In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of the Irish-language public sphere, with a primary emp... more In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of the Irish-language public sphere, with a primary emphasis on the media landscape. In our analysis, we contend that the prevailing public sphere in Ireland predominantly functions in the English language, thereby subordinating the Irish-language public sphere. By scrutinising the challenges inherent in conceptualising an Irish-language public sphere vis-à-vis Irish speakers, we underscore the absence of a cohesive public of Irish speakers. Consequently, the Irish-language public sphere finds itself grappling with inherent fragility. The waning usage and proficiency in the Irish language exhibit a symbiotic relationship with the frailty of the Irish-language public sphere, consequently limiting the input of the Irish-language public sphere into the political sphere. In the predicted increase in employment opportunities for Irish speakers, there exists the potential for improvement in Irish-language fluency and usage, fostering a more consolidated Irish-language public sphere that could manifest more prominently. Our examination is grounded in the history of Irish broadcasting and theories of nations and nationalism. Central to our inquiry are the contrary forces of ratings (commercial motive) and revival (nationalist motive). Given the limited and dispersed number of the Irish speakers, we underscore the pivotal role of media in sustaining an Irish-language public sphere. As we navigate these dimensions, our study unravels the interplay between language, media, and societal frameworks that shape the contours of the Irish-language public sphere.

Irish Journal of Sociology, 2024

RéamhfhocalSa staidéar píolótach seo rinneamar iniúchadh ar an gceangal atá ann idir labhairt na ... more RéamhfhocalSa staidéar píolótach seo rinneamar iniúchadh ar an gceangal atá ann idir labhairt na Gaeilge agus muintearas, ag díriú go sonrach ar chainteoirí Gaeilge ó chúlraí eitneacha agus/nó náisiúnta éagsúla i bPoblacht na hÉireann. Ghlac daoine, a raibh náisiúntachtaí agus eitneachtaí éagsúla acu, rannpáirt sa staidéar. Trí thaighde cáilíochtúil (ag amharc trí lionsa an náisiúnachais) rinneamar imscrúdú ar an gceist an dtugann labhairt na Gaeilge le mothú do dhaoine gur Éireannaigh iad. Ag an am céanna rinneamar scrúdú ar an eispéireas a bhí acu le daoine a bhí ag iarraidh iad a dhúnadh amach. Taispeánann ár dtorthaí an ról cumasaithe atá ag an nGaeilge do dhaoine ó chúlraí éagsúla, ag cuidiú leo imeascadh sa tsochaí, ag cuidiú leo cur i gcoinne an choimhthithe nó an chiníochais, agus i gcoinne daoine a cheistíonn cén fáth a bhfuil siad in Éirinn. Mar sin féin, d'fhéadfadh teannas a bheith ann idir Éireannaigh bhána agus iad siúd ó chúlraí éagsúla atá ina gcainteoirí Gaeilge, rud a thógann ceisteanna tábhachtacha maidir le coimhlintí agus toradh na gcoimhlintí sin. Tugann an staidéar seo bunléargais ar chúrsaí agus leagann sé béim ar an ngá atá le tuilleadh imscrúdaithe a dhéanamh sa réimse seo.

POLITICA & SOCIETÀ, 2024

This article explores the relationship between conspiracy theories and the broad conceptualizatio... more This article explores the relationship between conspiracy theories and the broad conceptualization of nations and nationalism. Firstly, it highlights how nations as “imagined communities” provide a fertile ground for conspiracy theories due to the interpretative space the imagination process offers. Secondly, it argues that, due to the ubiquity and pervasiveness of nationalism and the nation-state, events such as wars, pandemics, climate change, and immigration are often interpreted through a national perspective, which can amplify conspiratorial readings. Furthermore, these interpretations not only shape national perceptions but also influence state policymaking. This influence persists as, despite globalization and increased transnational connections, national language and media continue to arguably be the main vehicles shaping public opinion within nation-states. The article concludes by underscoring the deep-rooted connection between many conspiracy theories and nationalism’s structural elements such as nation, national identity, nation-state, and national security. It argues that to address these theories effectively, one must approach them within this comprehensive framework.

Sociolinguistics in Ireland, 2016

Changes in Irish language media reflect changes in the wider national project. Throughout the wor... more Changes in Irish language media reflect changes in the wider national project. Throughout the world language has been one of the defining characteristics of nations used by nationalists of various shades to justify their cultural, economic and political projects. The media have been an important tool in those projects. In Ireland, since the nineteenth century, the Irish language has been used to validate the Irish nation and justify an Irish nation-state. There are identifiable phases of the national project, in the context of which the landscape of Irish language media can be understood, from the more explicit national project in the early years of the State, through the liberalising and minority-rights phase in the second half of the century to the more individualistic phase of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. In the early years of the State there was little or no choice of radio stations. The amount of Irish on radio gradually increased as the reach of the broadcasts spread from the regions around Dublin and Cork across the country. The broadcasts in Irish were aimed at the whole population. In the middle of the century the national project faltered and was liberalised. The decrease in the amount of Irish on radio (and television) was opposed in the context of community minority rights (from which Raidió na Gaeltachta emerged). In recent years there have been interesting developments in terms of providing radio and television programmes for individuals rather than for the nation or minority community. This can be seen, not only in the emergence of new Irish-language radio and television stations, but also in developments on existing channels.

Are the Irish Different, 2014

Nearly half the country speaks Irish. Erroneous as this statement may appear, results from the 20... more Nearly half the country speaks Irish. Erroneous as this statement may appear, results from the 2011 census indicate that 42 per cent of the population of the Republic of Ireland can speak Irish. The figure has been this high since the 1990s and had doubled since the 1970s. Most people in Ireland would suspect the accuracy of this figure and would believe that few people can speak Irish. Why then do so many people claim to be able to speak Irish? The answer appears to lie in the connection between the Irish language and the Irish nation.

Irish Journal of Sociology, 2013

Patriotism is not completely dissimilar to nationalism, it is a type of nationalism. One could sa... more Patriotism is not completely dissimilar to nationalism, it is a type of nationalism. One could say that patriotism is a type of cold or banal nationalism. In Germany, in places and on occasions one would expect banal symbols of the nation, they are absent, or deliberately played down. Nonetheless, the nation is presented using the best available evidence, i.e. the things of which the nation is most proud. Although the symbolism is not apparent in them, they provide banal support for national pride and they have the potential to become national symbols in circumstances of hot nationalism. In this paper an ecologically friendly neighbourhood in Germany is discussed as an example of these types of dormant symbols.

Níl an tírghrá go hiomlán difriúil leis an náisiúnachas, is cineál náisiúnachais é. D’fhéadfá a rá gur cineál náisiúnachas fuar nó leamh ('banal') é an tírghrá. Sa Ghearmáin, in áiteanna agus ar ócáidí a mbeifí ag súil le siombailí an náisiúin a bheith ann go leamh, níl siad ann ar chor ar bith, nó tá siad íoslaghdaithe d’aon turas. Ach fós cuirtear náisiúin i láthair leis an bhfhianaise is fearr dá bhfuil ar fail .i. na rudaí a mó a mbíonn bród ar an náisiún astu. Cé nach bhfuil an siombalachas soiléir iontu seo tugann na rudaí sin tacaíocht leamh don bhród náisiúnta agus tá an cumas iontu a bheith ina siombailí náisiúnta sa chás go dtiocfadh an náisiúnachas te i gceist. Sa pháipéar seo pléitear ceantar éiceolaíoch sa Ghearmáin mar shampla de na cineálacha siombailí folaigh seo.

Irish Studies Review, 2012

Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earli... more Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earlier Irish Television–coincides nicely with the 50th anniversary of Ireland's first television broadcast. Recent discussions, particularly on RTÉ radio, of the early years of Irish television, included mention of Savage's book (mentioned by John Bowman–who has just published a book on the fifty years of RTÉ television). 2012 is an important anniversary for television and perhaps, like the series of books edited by Richard Pine to mark the ...

Economic and Social Review, 2011

Abstract: This paper contributes to the discussion of linguistic elitism in this journal (Borooah... more Abstract: This paper contributes to the discussion of linguistic elitism in this journal (Borooah et al., 2009). Two main questions are addressed. First, most “census Irish speakers” are not in fact Irish speakers and the majority of Irish speakers proper are not a coherent group. Second, the Irish language is part of the cultural capital which can be acquired by people with an “advantage.” The argument is made that people with an advantage are more likely to speak Irish rather than Irish speakers being more likely to have an advantage.

International Journal of …, Jan 1, 2009

Abstract In this article new findings are outlined that show a relationship between ability to sp... more Abstract In this article new findings are outlined that show a relationship between ability to speak Irish and level of education. The authors' statistical analysis of International Social Survey Programme data from a survey in 2003 on national identity reveals that Irish speakers have been more likely than non Irish speakers to attend university (or equivalent). This likelihood is strongest amongst people who were born in the 1950s and 1960s, and more particularly amongst women rather than men of this age group. This is not the case ...

Taighde agus Teagasc 6, 2008

A New View of the Irish Language, Jan 1, 2008

pp. 351-69 in Sara O’Sullivan (ed.) Contemporary Ireland: A Sociological Map. Dublin: UCD Press., 2007

Nations and Nationalism, 2022

Although nationalism has been identified as the dominant ideology of the modern era, and environm... more Although nationalism has been identified as the dominant ideology of the modern era, and environmentalism is the 21st century rising star, few studies address the relationship between them. The consensus seems to be that they are

JOURNAL OF MULTILINGUAL AND MULTICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT, 2024

This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and belonging, with a focus on I... more This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and belonging, with a focus on Irish-speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities in Ireland. The research includes twelve respondents with diverse backgrounds in terms of nationality and/or ethnicity. We examine whether the language gives them a sense of belonging to Ireland, but also if they experience any exclusion on the basis that it does not ‘belong’ to them. Our research is qualitative and we analyse the data through the lens of nationalism studies. We suggest that Irish can be an important tool in the hands of speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities, a power that they can use in diverse ways, including to foster integration, avoid alienation, legitimise their presence in the country and fight against forms of discrimination. Yet, questions arise when the national heritage is passed on by individuals that many people do not consider ‘national’. Do clashes occur between people who consider themselves to be of Irish ethnicity and nationality and Irish speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities? What are the reasons for the clashes and what are the consequences? This study offers some answers while pointing to the needs of more investigation of the subject.

Frontiers in Sociology, 2022

What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the a... more What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the available literature, including works by prominent thinkers Ulrich Beck and Bruno Latour, identify it as a collective global challenge rather than a local and national one. But is it really so? This article develops an original theoretical framework integrating the theory of "reflexive modernity", theories of nationalism, and case studies of green nationstates. The goal is to change the observation point and search for original solutions to the climate crisis. Building on this theoretical framework, this study puts forward the following claims: () climate change is undeniably a global phenomenon, but its causes are national. It can be traced back to a small number of top polluting nation-states (the US, China, Russia, India, Japan and EU) whose historical share of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, the main cause for global warming, surpasses %; () Most of these nation-states are entrenched in Resource Nationalism (RN), a form of nationalism that sees the environment as a resource to exploit; () there exist forms of sustainable nationalism, which this study conceptualizes as Reflexive Green Nationalism (RGN); () the solution to climate change is local rather than global. It depends on top polluters' capacity to re-modernize and develop RGN; and () according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, if emissions are not reduced by % by , the world is likely to cross the tipping point into a global climate catastrophe. Therefore, updating these nation-states and their ideology to more sustainable forms is humanity's best shot at halting the climate crisis.

Frontiers Research Topics, 2024

2nd Edition of the book

Frontiers in Political Science, 2023

Editorial on the Research Topic Beyond the frontiers of political science: is good governance pos... more Editorial on the Research Topic Beyond the frontiers of political science: is good governance possible in cataclysmic times?

Frontiers in Sociology, 2023

In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the ... more In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the intensive activities of solidarity at the local, national, and transnational levels, the increase in scientific cooperation, the implementation of assistance policies by states, and the various endeavors of NGOs, religious communities, private organizations, wealthy and less wealthy donors, and charities to support individuals and groups a ected by it. It is argued that the pandemic is not only a tragedy that revealed some of the disintegrative processes of global risk society but is also a matchless opportunity for acknowledging what can be (and is) done in the globalized world when guided by positives such as cooperation, coordination, and solidarity. Discussing the theories of globalization, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism, with special attention to Ulrich Beck's theory of reflexive society, the core point of this article is that, considering upcoming global threats of even greater magnitude, such as climate change, potentially deadlier pandemics, and nuclear conflicts, a new world order based on cooperation, coordination and solidarity between nation-states is not only desirable but necessary for survival.

Society, 2023

In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of the Irish-language public sphere, with a primary emp... more In this paper, we delve into the dynamics of the Irish-language public sphere, with a primary emphasis on the media landscape. In our analysis, we contend that the prevailing public sphere in Ireland predominantly functions in the English language, thereby subordinating the Irish-language public sphere. By scrutinising the challenges inherent in conceptualising an Irish-language public sphere vis-à-vis Irish speakers, we underscore the absence of a cohesive public of Irish speakers. Consequently, the Irish-language public sphere finds itself grappling with inherent fragility. The waning usage and proficiency in the Irish language exhibit a symbiotic relationship with the frailty of the Irish-language public sphere, consequently limiting the input of the Irish-language public sphere into the political sphere. In the predicted increase in employment opportunities for Irish speakers, there exists the potential for improvement in Irish-language fluency and usage, fostering a more consolidated Irish-language public sphere that could manifest more prominently. Our examination is grounded in the history of Irish broadcasting and theories of nations and nationalism. Central to our inquiry are the contrary forces of ratings (commercial motive) and revival (nationalist motive). Given the limited and dispersed number of the Irish speakers, we underscore the pivotal role of media in sustaining an Irish-language public sphere. As we navigate these dimensions, our study unravels the interplay between language, media, and societal frameworks that shape the contours of the Irish-language public sphere.

Irish Journal of Sociology, 2024

RéamhfhocalSa staidéar píolótach seo rinneamar iniúchadh ar an gceangal atá ann idir labhairt na ... more RéamhfhocalSa staidéar píolótach seo rinneamar iniúchadh ar an gceangal atá ann idir labhairt na Gaeilge agus muintearas, ag díriú go sonrach ar chainteoirí Gaeilge ó chúlraí eitneacha agus/nó náisiúnta éagsúla i bPoblacht na hÉireann. Ghlac daoine, a raibh náisiúntachtaí agus eitneachtaí éagsúla acu, rannpáirt sa staidéar. Trí thaighde cáilíochtúil (ag amharc trí lionsa an náisiúnachais) rinneamar imscrúdú ar an gceist an dtugann labhairt na Gaeilge le mothú do dhaoine gur Éireannaigh iad. Ag an am céanna rinneamar scrúdú ar an eispéireas a bhí acu le daoine a bhí ag iarraidh iad a dhúnadh amach. Taispeánann ár dtorthaí an ról cumasaithe atá ag an nGaeilge do dhaoine ó chúlraí éagsúla, ag cuidiú leo imeascadh sa tsochaí, ag cuidiú leo cur i gcoinne an choimhthithe nó an chiníochais, agus i gcoinne daoine a cheistíonn cén fáth a bhfuil siad in Éirinn. Mar sin féin, d'fhéadfadh teannas a bheith ann idir Éireannaigh bhána agus iad siúd ó chúlraí éagsúla atá ina gcainteoirí Gaeilge, rud a thógann ceisteanna tábhachtacha maidir le coimhlintí agus toradh na gcoimhlintí sin. Tugann an staidéar seo bunléargais ar chúrsaí agus leagann sé béim ar an ngá atá le tuilleadh imscrúdaithe a dhéanamh sa réimse seo.

POLITICA & SOCIETÀ, 2024

This article explores the relationship between conspiracy theories and the broad conceptualizatio... more This article explores the relationship between conspiracy theories and the broad conceptualization of nations and nationalism. Firstly, it highlights how nations as “imagined communities” provide a fertile ground for conspiracy theories due to the interpretative space the imagination process offers. Secondly, it argues that, due to the ubiquity and pervasiveness of nationalism and the nation-state, events such as wars, pandemics, climate change, and immigration are often interpreted through a national perspective, which can amplify conspiratorial readings. Furthermore, these interpretations not only shape national perceptions but also influence state policymaking. This influence persists as, despite globalization and increased transnational connections, national language and media continue to arguably be the main vehicles shaping public opinion within nation-states. The article concludes by underscoring the deep-rooted connection between many conspiracy theories and nationalism’s structural elements such as nation, national identity, nation-state, and national security. It argues that to address these theories effectively, one must approach them within this comprehensive framework.

Sociolinguistics in Ireland, 2016

Changes in Irish language media reflect changes in the wider national project. Throughout the wor... more Changes in Irish language media reflect changes in the wider national project. Throughout the world language has been one of the defining characteristics of nations used by nationalists of various shades to justify their cultural, economic and political projects. The media have been an important tool in those projects. In Ireland, since the nineteenth century, the Irish language has been used to validate the Irish nation and justify an Irish nation-state. There are identifiable phases of the national project, in the context of which the landscape of Irish language media can be understood, from the more explicit national project in the early years of the State, through the liberalising and minority-rights phase in the second half of the century to the more individualistic phase of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. In the early years of the State there was little or no choice of radio stations. The amount of Irish on radio gradually increased as the reach of the broadcasts spread from the regions around Dublin and Cork across the country. The broadcasts in Irish were aimed at the whole population. In the middle of the century the national project faltered and was liberalised. The decrease in the amount of Irish on radio (and television) was opposed in the context of community minority rights (from which Raidió na Gaeltachta emerged). In recent years there have been interesting developments in terms of providing radio and television programmes for individuals rather than for the nation or minority community. This can be seen, not only in the emergence of new Irish-language radio and television stations, but also in developments on existing channels.

Are the Irish Different, 2014

Nearly half the country speaks Irish. Erroneous as this statement may appear, results from the 20... more Nearly half the country speaks Irish. Erroneous as this statement may appear, results from the 2011 census indicate that 42 per cent of the population of the Republic of Ireland can speak Irish. The figure has been this high since the 1990s and had doubled since the 1970s. Most people in Ireland would suspect the accuracy of this figure and would believe that few people can speak Irish. Why then do so many people claim to be able to speak Irish? The answer appears to lie in the connection between the Irish language and the Irish nation.

Irish Journal of Sociology, 2013

Patriotism is not completely dissimilar to nationalism, it is a type of nationalism. One could sa... more Patriotism is not completely dissimilar to nationalism, it is a type of nationalism. One could say that patriotism is a type of cold or banal nationalism. In Germany, in places and on occasions one would expect banal symbols of the nation, they are absent, or deliberately played down. Nonetheless, the nation is presented using the best available evidence, i.e. the things of which the nation is most proud. Although the symbolism is not apparent in them, they provide banal support for national pride and they have the potential to become national symbols in circumstances of hot nationalism. In this paper an ecologically friendly neighbourhood in Germany is discussed as an example of these types of dormant symbols.

Níl an tírghrá go hiomlán difriúil leis an náisiúnachas, is cineál náisiúnachais é. D’fhéadfá a rá gur cineál náisiúnachas fuar nó leamh ('banal') é an tírghrá. Sa Ghearmáin, in áiteanna agus ar ócáidí a mbeifí ag súil le siombailí an náisiúin a bheith ann go leamh, níl siad ann ar chor ar bith, nó tá siad íoslaghdaithe d’aon turas. Ach fós cuirtear náisiúin i láthair leis an bhfhianaise is fearr dá bhfuil ar fail .i. na rudaí a mó a mbíonn bród ar an náisiún astu. Cé nach bhfuil an siombalachas soiléir iontu seo tugann na rudaí sin tacaíocht leamh don bhród náisiúnta agus tá an cumas iontu a bheith ina siombailí náisiúnta sa chás go dtiocfadh an náisiúnachas te i gceist. Sa pháipéar seo pléitear ceantar éiceolaíoch sa Ghearmáin mar shampla de na cineálacha siombailí folaigh seo.

Irish Studies Review, 2012

Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earli... more Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earlier Irish Television–coincides nicely with the 50th anniversary of Ireland's first television broadcast. Recent discussions, particularly on RTÉ radio, of the early years of Irish television, included mention of Savage's book (mentioned by John Bowman–who has just published a book on the fifty years of RTÉ television). 2012 is an important anniversary for television and perhaps, like the series of books edited by Richard Pine to mark the ...

Economic and Social Review, 2011

Abstract: This paper contributes to the discussion of linguistic elitism in this journal (Borooah... more Abstract: This paper contributes to the discussion of linguistic elitism in this journal (Borooah et al., 2009). Two main questions are addressed. First, most “census Irish speakers” are not in fact Irish speakers and the majority of Irish speakers proper are not a coherent group. Second, the Irish language is part of the cultural capital which can be acquired by people with an “advantage.” The argument is made that people with an advantage are more likely to speak Irish rather than Irish speakers being more likely to have an advantage.

International Journal of …, Jan 1, 2009

Abstract In this article new findings are outlined that show a relationship between ability to sp... more Abstract In this article new findings are outlined that show a relationship between ability to speak Irish and level of education. The authors' statistical analysis of International Social Survey Programme data from a survey in 2003 on national identity reveals that Irish speakers have been more likely than non Irish speakers to attend university (or equivalent). This likelihood is strongest amongst people who were born in the 1950s and 1960s, and more particularly amongst women rather than men of this age group. This is not the case ...

Taighde agus Teagasc 6, 2008

A New View of the Irish Language, Jan 1, 2008

pp. 351-69 in Sara O’Sullivan (ed.) Contemporary Ireland: A Sociological Map. Dublin: UCD Press., 2007

A new view of the Irish language, Jan 1, 2008

Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earlier Ir... more Savage's A loss of innocence?–a scholarly and well-written book, which complements his earlier Irish Television–coincides nicely with the 50th anniversary of Ireland's first television broadcast. Recent discussions, particularly on RTÉ radio, of the early years of Irish television, included mention of Savage's book (mentioned by John Bowman–who has just published a book on the fifty years of RTÉ television).

Iarfhlaith Watson agus Bairbre Ní Chiosáin joined Cormac Ó hEadhra on Cormac ag a Cúig to discuss... more Iarfhlaith Watson agus Bairbre Ní Chiosáin joined Cormac Ó hEadhra on Cormac ag a Cúig to discuss integration in the context of recent terrorist attacks in France. Aired 5-6 on RnaG on 9 January 2015.

Presented in UCD School of Sociology, Oct 7, 2010

Frontiers Research Topics

2nd Edition of the book

Frontiers in Political Science

Frontiers in Sociology

In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the ... more In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the intensive activities of solidarity at the local, national, and transnational levels, the increase in scientific cooperation, the implementation of assistance policies by states, and the various endeavors of NGOs, religious communities, private organizations, wealthy and less wealthy donors, and charities to support individuals and groups affected by it. It is argued that the pandemic is not only a tragedy that revealed some of the disintegrative processes of global risk society but is also a matchless opportunity for acknowledging what can be (and is) done in the globalized world when guided by positives such as cooperation, coordination, and solidarity. Discussing the theories of globalization, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism, with special attention to Ulrich Beck's theory of reflexive society, the core point of this article is that, considering upcoming global threats of even grea...

Frontiers in Sociology, Feb 23, 2023

In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the ... more In this article the positive lessons from the coronavirus pandemic are examined, focusing on the intensive activities of solidarity at the local, national, and transnational levels, the increase in scientific cooperation, the implementation of assistance policies by states, and the various endeavors of NGOs, religious communities, private organizations, wealthy and less wealthy donors, and charities to support individuals and groups a ected by it. It is argued that the pandemic is not only a tragedy that revealed some of the disintegrative processes of global risk society but is also a matchless opportunity for acknowledging what can be (and is) done in the globalized world when guided by positives such as cooperation, coordination, and solidarity. Discussing the theories of globalization, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism, with special attention to Ulrich Beck's theory of reflexive society, the core point of this article is that, considering upcoming global threats of even greater magnitude, such as climate change, potentially deadlier pandemics, and nuclear conflicts, a new world order based on cooperation, coordination and solidarity between nation-states is not only desirable but necessary for survival.

Frontiers in Sociology

What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the a... more What can theories of nationalism and the nation-state tell us about climate change? Much of the available literature, including works by prominent thinkers Ulrich Beck and Bruno Latour, identify it as a collective global challenge rather than a local and national one. But is it really so? This article develops an original theoretical framework integrating the theory of “reflexive modernity”, theories of nationalism, and case studies of green nation-states. The goal is to change the observation point and search for original solutions to the climate crisis. Building on this theoretical framework, this study puts forward the following claims: (1) climate change is undeniably a global phenomenon, but its causes are national. It can be traced back to a small number of top polluting nation-states (the US, China, Russia, India, Japan and EU28) whose historical share of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, the main cause for global warming, surpasses 74%; (2) Most of these nation-stat...

Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development, 2022

This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and belonging, with a focus on ... more This is a pilot study on the relationship between speaking Irish and
belonging, with a focus on Irish-speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or
nationalities in Ireland. The research includes twelve respondents with
diverse backgrounds in terms of nationality and/or ethnicity. We
examine whether the language gives them a sense of belonging to
Ireland, but also if they experience any exclusion on the basis that it
does not ‘belong’ to them. Our research is qualitative and we analyse
the data through the lens of nationalism studies. We suggest that Irish
can be an important tool in the hands of speakers of diverse ethnicities
and/or nationalities, a power that they can use in diverse ways, including
to foster integration, avoid alienation, legitimise their presence in the
country and fight against forms of discrimination. Yet, questions arise
when the national heritage is passed on by individuals that many people
do not consider ‘national’. Do clashes occur between people who
consider themselves to be of Irish ethnicity and nationality and Irish
speakers of diverse ethnicities and/or nationalities? What are the reasons
for the clashes and what are the consequences? This study offers some
answers while pointing to the needs of more investigation of the subject.

Seimineár Poiblí ar Raidió na Gaeltachta: 40 bliain faoi bhláth / A Public Seminar celebrating 40... more Seimineár Poiblí ar Raidió na Gaeltachta: 40 bliain faoi bhláth / A Public Seminar celebrating 40 years of Raidió na Gaeltachta, Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, NUI Galway, Galway, 19 May 2012Dr Iarfhlaith Watson was invited to give a lecture at a public seminar to celebrate forty years of Raidió na Gaeltachta, Indreabhán, Galway 2012. The talks and discussions at the seminar were recorded for broadcast on Raidió na Gaeltachta.This is the transcript of a paper broadcast by Raidió na Gaeltachta

Nations and Nationalism, Mar 27, 2022

Are the Irish different?, 2015

Bulletin of the Belgian Mathematical Society - Simon Stevin, 2009

Irish Journal of Sociology, 2013

Níl an tírghrá go hiomlán difriúil leis an náisiúnachas, is cineál náisiúnachais é. D'fhéadfá... more Níl an tírghrá go hiomlán difriúil leis an náisiúnachas, is cineál náisiúnachais é. D'fhéadfá a rá gur cineál náisiúnachas fuar nó leamh (‘banal’) é an tírghrá. Sa Ghearmáin, in áiteanna agus ar ócáidí a mbeifí ag súil le siombailí an náisiúin a bheith ann go leamh, níl siad ann ar chor ar bith, nó tá siad íoslaghdaithe d'aon turas. Ach fós cuirtear náisiúin i láthair leis an bhfhianaise is fearr dá bhfuil ar fáil i na rudaí a mó a mbíonn bród ar an náisiún astu. Cé nach bhfuil an siombalachas soiléir iontu seo tugann na rudaí sin tacaíocht leamh don bhród náisiúnta agus tá an cumas iontu a bheith ina siombailí náisiúnta sa chás go dtiocfadh an náisiúnachas te i gceist. Sa pháipéar seo pléitear ceantar éiceolaíoch sa Ghearmáin mar shampla de na cineálacha siombailí folaigh seo.