Is Patriotism a Virtue?

Is Patriotism a Virtue?

I have embarked on writing an article of a subject that I am certain will ‘rock some boats’, ‘ruffle some feathers’ or just plain tick some people off. Patriotism is a topic that I have pondered over many years and have had numerous discussions and debates with people from all walks of life. Having had a multi-cultural upbringing, and having worked with people from different parts of the world, I have had the opportunity to see the bigger picture and in some ways, maybe the pros and cons of various national and cultural aspects; But most importantly, of the aspect of Patriotism itself.

Patriotism in simple words is ‘the love of and/or devotion to one’s country’.  However its definition has changed dramatically over time and its present meaning varies and is dependent on context, geography and philosophy. But let me state at the outset what Patriotism ‘is not’. In my opinion, Patriotism is NOT mindless loyalty to one’s own nation having no regard for the people or characteristics of that nation or others. And the above is what I have mostly seen of Patriotism displayed in many parts of the world including my own country – India.

Greek philosopher Socrates stated “Patriotism does not require one to agree with everything that his country does and would actually promote analytical questioning in a quest to make the country the best it possibly can be.” This view I completely support. What I have seen over the years of ‘conventional’ patriotism is more an over-zealous ‘nationalism’ than it is anything else. And this has on many occasions made me ‘not feel’ patriotic. Let me first state the positive and practical ‘importance’ of Patriotism.

I once read a fascinating article that stated the importance of a moderately high blood pressure to a boxer. While that may not be a very helpful analogy, the undertone is that certain fields require you to have a certain aspect in order to perform your designated duties to that field; National Security for example. It is absolutely necessary for every soldier or authority in any wing of the armed forces to have a sense of patriotism. The motive being a higher cause or ideal makes it crucial, in this case, protecting or defending your nation. And this is positive. However, like I said above, the aspect of patriotism is more complicated than that. While the context in which patriotism is exhibited here may be right, there are philosophical problems. Soldiers on both sides of the war may be equally patriotic but therein lays the problem of ‘ethics’. Only one side may have or be the closest to a higher or right ideal. You will immediately see what I mean. But what does it mean to the average civilian? What does it mean to you or me?