Patriotism = love of country

Second perhaps only to the Fourth of July, presidential elections seem to stir up the patriotic roots in the souls of Americans. Candidates, in order to convince the American voter of their allegiance, stand in front of massive American flags, use an ample amount of red, white, and blue, and end most speeches with the phrase, “God bless America.” But to these candidates and more importantly, to people of America, what is patriotism? What does it mean to be patriotic?

One might think that a basic definition of patriotism would be universal across the States. Perhaps it is, and perhaps that basic definition is simply love of country. But are the means in which that love is expressed universal? Is one person’s patriotic act another’s? This is certainly a fairly complex question that I don’t have the answer to; however, I do have some thoughts.

Let’s look at this question through two lenses: Liberal and Conservative. I understand that these two labels can be fairly limiting and there is a much wider range of views on the political spectrum, but for this discussion let’s limit it to these two.

One might say that for Conservatives, patriotism is rooted in the past. It is a concept that is rich in traditions and imagery. Almost something tangible that you can hold in your hand, or rather, should hold in your hand. It is based on the belief that the history of America is close to perfect. Peter Beinart refers to this idea in a recent article in TIME magazine. Beinart suggests that the Conservative viewpoint of patriotism is one that only endorses behavior supporting the notion that America’s past is without sin. Essentially, dissent in any form is unpatriotic.

The other side of the patriotism issue is the Liberal view. Unlike the Conservative patriot, Liberal patriotism isn’t focused around imagery and blind loyalty. Patriotic liberals cling to the ideals of freedom and equality, the ideals that, at least according to the Declaration of Independence, are the driving force behind America. Liberals feel it their civic duty to question government and ensure it stays on a consistent track to form a more perfect union.

I’m obviously not an expert on this subject – these are simply my humble observations, more to come on this subject. In the meantime, can anyone guess which side I might subscribe to?????