Although it is not possible to point to a particular object and say, “This is the nation,” still we tend to think of nations as concrete, substantial entities. Nations are in actuality, however, abstract ideas. Which leads to the fundamental question: “What is the meaning of this abstract idea, a nation?”

Scholars have "deconstructed" just about ever term. But "the nation" remains inviolable. Why does this word attract allegiance and gain such power over the minds and hearts of human beings.