Hungary’s Secret to Resilience: Insights on Culture, Humility, and Defying the West

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This interview is with Dr. Calum Nicholson, Director of Research at the Danube Institute in Budapest. Nicholson, originally from Montreal and London, provides a detailed overview of the Institute, a center-right think tank established in 2013 with a diverse group of scholars and fellows from around the world. He highlights Hungary’s distinct cultural and political identity, shaped by its traumatic history of invasions, wars, and the Treaty of Trianon, which fuels its emphasis on national pride and humility. Nicholson discusses Hungary’s conservative stance, strong sense of tradition, and its emphasis on cultural preservation, especially through unique practices like the dance house movement, which reinforces Hungarian identity.

He contrasts Hungarian perspectives with those in the Anglosphere, emphasizing Hungary’s geographical and historical context, which fosters a more realistic and humility-based outlook. Nicholson notes Hungary’s resistance to cultural homogenization within the EU, asserting its desire to retain its sovereignty and unique culture. He remarks on Hungary’s multifaceted relationships with global powers, including the US, China, and Israel, emphasizing a strategy of connectivity over alignment. The conversation touches on Hungary’s historical diversity, revealing lessons from its multi-ethnic past and emphasizing the importance of negotiation and plurality.

Nicholson also discusses the broader cultural and philosophical implications of Hungary’s worldview, emphasizing humility over hubris, the importance of tradition and religion, and the dangers of secular millenarian movements in the West. He advocates for humility, recognizing human fallibility, and learning from cultures that have endured for centuries. The dialogue concludes with Nicholson sharing his social media contacts and encouraging engagement with the Danube Institute’s events and publications. Overall, the discussion underscores Hungary’s resilience, cultural richness, and distinct approach to modern socio-political challenges.

Please note the views expressed by the individual(s) in this video are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views or principles of the First Freedoms Foundation.

You can find more information about Dr. Nicholson and his work at:

https://danubeinstitute.hu/en/authors/nicholson-calum

https://x.com/ctmnicholson

https://calumnicholson.substack.com/about