John Hutchinson (writer)

John Hutchinson is a British writer and academic, known primarily for his work on nationalism, ethnic conflict, and the sociology of culture. He is Emeritus Professor of Nationalism and Social Conflict at the London School of Economics (LSE).

Hutchinson's research focuses on the historical development of national identity, the role of culture and religion in shaping national movements, and the dynamics of ethnic violence. He has written extensively on the relationship between nationalism and modernity, arguing that nationalism is not simply a relic of the past but a continuing force in the contemporary world.

His key works include The Dynamics of Cultural Nationalism: The Gaelic Revival and the Creation of the Irish Nation State (1987), Modern Nationalism (1994), and Nations as Zones of Conflict (2005). These books have been influential in the field of nationalism studies, contributing to debates about the origins, nature, and consequences of national identities.

Hutchinson's work is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on history, sociology, and political science to understand the complex phenomena of nationalism and ethnic conflict. He has also contributed to the development of theoretical frameworks for analyzing the role of culture in political life. His scholarship has significantly shaped the understanding of nationalism as a multifaceted and historically contingent phenomenon.