Primordialism and Ethnic Conflict: Theory and Case Studies
This paper focuses on the primordial theory of ethnicity. Primordialism believes that ethnicity is based on inborn traits over which the individual has no control, and that the primacy of loyalty to one's kinship group is a primary driver and motivator of human behavior. The paper examines the Balkan Wars, modern Israel, and the genocide in Rwanda to examine the impact of ethnic-driven discord on the modern world.