Final answer:
National unity is reinforced by a shared sense of identity, nationalism, centripetal forces like ethnic unity and tolerance, as well as practices that include all citizens in political, social, and economic aspects of a country.
Step-by-step explanation:
National unity is a vital aspect for the stability and progress of a country. Factors that promote national unity can include a shared sense of identity, which is often strengthened by nationalism. Political scientist Benedict Anderson suggests that states utilize a variety of methods to foster loyalty among citizens and bolster the legitimacy of the state system. This can be achieved through public practices such as elections, taxation, education, and the enforcement of law, as well as through public rituals like the celebration of national holidays, and reverence for national monuments and museums.
To further encourage national unity, governments may work to mitigate any divisive forces such as loss of rights or ethnic tensions. Centripetal forces, such as ethnic unity, tolerance, and social/economic equity, are instrumental in holding a state together. By ensuring that these centripetal forces outweigh any centrifugal forces that may lead to division or conflict, a nation can maintain cohesive and united. For example, invoking a sense of unity in the face of an external threat or in the aftermath of national tragedies can lead to a surge in nationalism, as was seen in the United States after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Implementing inclusive policies that acknowledge and respect cultural diversities and promote social and economic equity also plays a crucial role in unity. These actions help assure that all groups within a nation feel recognized, valued, and able to participate fully in the nation's political, economic, and social life.