Understanding Romanian Unity Beyond Division

It is often remarked that Romanians, like many other nations, have their share of divisions and internal conflicts. However, a deep dive into the historical and cultural context reveals that the narrative of division is not an intrinsic characteristic of Romanian society.

Many people associate unity with times of external threat or danger. Indeed, history shows that Romanians have stood unified in the face of external dangers. But, as sociologist Vasile Dancu puts it, 'We are not superficial those who lived before 1989 know that another Romania is possible. Under the dictatorship, Romanians found mechanisms of evasion in literature, art, and philosophy. Now, however, people are subjected to a decentralization process through television and the press, they are reduced to instincts and desires. Collective myths are destroyed and replaced with consumption myths.'

Modern Challenges and Cultural Shifts

In today's world, the modernity brought by globalization and digital media has led to a shift in how Romanians relate to each other and to the collective identity. Dancu emphasizes that media has played a significant role in this modernization process. The spread of television and the Internet has reduced Romanians to a state of disposition, where their instincts and desires are more prominently present. The society has, in a way, lost its collective mechanisms to control superficiality.

The impact of this media-driven environment is such that it gives people the illusion of understanding complex situations, leading to a competitive and materialistic culture. As Dancu points out, 'Unfortunately, we are not Americans, and to allow ourselves to be stupid or superficial, the state does not defend us. We made the biggest mistake when we killed the Romanian state...'

Historical and Cultural Insights

The culture of Romanians is rooted deeply in historical and ethnic backgrounds that set them apart from many other nations. A unique aspect of Romanian ethnicity is that it evolved from a citizenship rather than a membership of a tribe or clan. Historically, the Romanian people have not adhered to the concept of vendetta, a cultural trait strongly present among the people of the Caucasus region and Southern Balkans. This distinct cultural evolution allows for a more unified state entity, as noted in the works of Dan Alexe.

The theory that Romania's cultural evolution differs from tribal and clan-based societies highlights an advantage Romanians have in forming large state entities. This characteristic has allowed them to navigate external threats and internal conflicts with a greater sense of unity and common purpose.

Overall Perspective

While modern challenges undoubtedly lead to divisions, it is essential to recognize the resilient unity of the Romanian people. The nation has a rich history of standing together in times of external threats, and its cultural evolution has made it more adaptable to modern challenges.

A Call for Unity in a Divided World

As an American living in New York and married to a lady from Romania, I too witness the divide but also the potential for unity within the Romanian people. Indeed, Romanians, if given the right external conditions, can unite in extreme troubled times. The key is to foster collective mechanisms of control and to prevent the media and global shifts from reducing the people to mere superficiality.

The goal should be to strengthen the cultural and historical foundations that bring Romanians together, ensuring they face challenges with unity and purpose, sustaining the legacy of a people who have always found strength in unity, despite their superficial divisions in today's world.