QUESTION

Read the article by Professor Tan Tai Yong, titled “Commentary: Bicentennial can be a worthwhile endeavor”.

Drawing upon the relevant course materials from Weeks 1 and 2 about national histories, the construction of nation-states, and nation-state building processes, sociologically discuss how these concepts apply to our understanding of the significance of national narratives in shaping

Singapore’s past, present, and future as a nation-state and modern city-state. In your essay, do include a critical examination surrounding top-down and bottom-up narratives in the Bicentennial experience.

Your essay should comprise an analysis of the sociological processes of nation-state building that are clearly observable during the pandemic, illustrating with relevant examples. You may also draw upon other materials relating to the Bicentennial from authoritative sources.