Fourth of July is upon us and we set out celebrating
our victory in releasing man from the bonds of the Monarch. It is also a day to
remember those who have served our country in combat or support services. It is
a time when nationalistic and patriotic sentiment is high and people celebrate
with fireworks, social gatherings and lots of flags.
To laymen nationalism and patriotism conjure up the
very same image but have dramatically different meanings. A patriot sees a
moral duty to the people of a nation while a nationalist identifies with
particular race, religion, or political party that advocates for nation
independence. It seems like splitting hairs but the difference can be
significant.
It is beneficial to define the two for
understanding.
Patriotism involves (Nathanson,1993, 34-35):
- Special affection for one's own country
- A sense of personal identification with the country
- Special concern for the well-being of the country
- Willingness to sacrifice to promote the country's good
According to the Stanford Dictionary of Philosophy
Nationalism is (1):
1. The
attitude that members have when they care about their national identity.
2. The
actions that members take when they seek self-determination.
Patriotism is focused on the beliefs of people
within a nation while nationalism is more concerned about national identity. The
difference can be further elaborated by saying patriotism is awareness of our
moral duties to a political community while nationalism is more of a connection
with race and natural identities (Action, 1972, 163).
As you celebrate Fourth of July consider what you
believe and why you believe them; most never question. Try and remember those
who fought and sacrificed for their nation. Did they believe in an image of
America as represented by symbols or did they believe in human truths as
manifested in their moral sentiments? Either way, celebrate and do your part to further the nation's legacy.
Acton, L. (1972). Nationality, Essays on Freedom
and Power. Gloucester: Peter Smith, 141–70.
Nathanson, S. (1989) In Defense of ‘Moderate
Patriotism’,” Ethics, 99: 535–552. Reprinted in Primoratz (ed.)
(2002).
