American Patriotism basically just means nationalism. Like most nationalism, it’s used both to galvanize Americans against foreign nations, and to shut down internal criticism or desire for reform. It’s obviously unpatriotic to try making your country better, because that implies that your country isn’t great
To be a patriot is to love your country (the patria, the Fatherland). In American politics we expect everyone to be patriots, so to accuse someone of being unpatriotic is to say he is self-interested or has some other ulterior motive.
In America, “patriotism” usually signifies love of the nation but is employed differently. Some employ it genuinely to voice pride or service; others employ it as a weapon to close down criticism or brand opponents un-American. So yes, it can signify something genuine, but it’s generally employed to fulfill personal or political agendas.
I think patriotism is loving your country and wanting what is best for it. In my opinion, that includes criticizing it. A loving parent teaches their kid right from wrong, they don’t let the kid do anything.
Others view my criticism as anti-American. I had a former coworker call me un-American for saying we should increase funding to the VA, a federal program to help military veterans. I would describe the refusal to criticize the US as nationalism, but others would disagree with me.
While definitions vary, these are the two main definitions I’ve encountered.
Comments
Generally used as the American term for civic nationalism.
Being proud of, supporting, and loving your nation.
Engaging in activities that honor the nation and it’s history.
Even engaging in the more superficial stuff like a cookout and fireworks on the 4th.
American Patriotism basically just means nationalism. Like most nationalism, it’s used both to galvanize Americans against foreign nations, and to shut down internal criticism or desire for reform. It’s obviously unpatriotic to try making your country better, because that implies that your country isn’t great
To be a patriot is to love your country (the patria, the Fatherland). In American politics we expect everyone to be patriots, so to accuse someone of being unpatriotic is to say he is self-interested or has some other ulterior motive.
Teenagers in 1941 lying about their age in order to fight in WW2
The way it’s used in the US today is… it’s a word used by fascists in red hats to justify the latest overreach of their glorious orange leader.
It’s now patriotic to illegally expel naturalized citizen combat veterans to a tropical death camp in a foreign country.
If you’re somewhere outside the US and thinking of visiting, don’t. This place is headed for civil war.
In America, “patriotism” usually signifies love of the nation but is employed differently. Some employ it genuinely to voice pride or service; others employ it as a weapon to close down criticism or brand opponents un-American. So yes, it can signify something genuine, but it’s generally employed to fulfill personal or political agendas.
Emotional blackmail
It used to mean something -unfortunately, not anymore. It is more of an excuse now.
“Dont tread on me” – while I furiously tread on others.
“Respect the flag” – while I desecrate it by turning it into underwear and drapes.
It depends on which American you ask.
I think patriotism is loving your country and wanting what is best for it. In my opinion, that includes criticizing it. A loving parent teaches their kid right from wrong, they don’t let the kid do anything.
Others view my criticism as anti-American. I had a former coworker call me un-American for saying we should increase funding to the VA, a federal program to help military veterans. I would describe the refusal to criticize the US as nationalism, but others would disagree with me.
While definitions vary, these are the two main definitions I’ve encountered.
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