Mediterranean Soilism: Local Identities in a Globalizing Region Introduction: Soilism as a Reaction to Unification Mediterranean soilism is a complex of intellectual, cultural, and political trends advocating for the uniqueness of local identities, traditions, and ecological practices of the Mediterranean in the face of globalization, standardization, and mass tourism. It is not a single ideology, but rather a family of discourses emerging at different points in the region — from Catalonia and Provence to Greece, Italy, and Croatia. Its foundation lies in the assertion of the value of place (genius loci), the deep historical connection of the people with a specific landscape, climate, agricultural, and craft practices. Historical and Philosophical Roots The ideological origins can be found in European romanticism of the 19th century with its interest in folk culture, language, and local history. However, modern Mediterranean soilism formed in the second half of the 20th century as a reaction to three challenges: Economic modernization and depopulation of rural areas ("exodus from the countryside"). Mass tourism, turning historical cities and coasts into a commodity devoid of authenticity. European integration, perceived by part of the local elites as a threat to cultural diversity and agricultural traditions (through EU standards). Important roles were played by thinkers developing a critique of modernity and utopias of progress: from the Algerian-French essayist Albert Camus, praising the light and nature of the Mediterranean, to the Italian economist Sergio Salvi, advocating for the value of rural economy. Key Directions and Manifestations 2. Linguistic regionalism.Protection of local languages and dialects (Occitan in Provence, Catalan, Sardinian, Sicilian, Galician), which are considered as repositories of a unique picture of the world and cultural code. This is not always separatism, but often — a demand for cultural autonomy and recognition. 4. Archite ... Read more