Patriotism vs. Nationalism

There is a major difference between a person with patriotism and a person with nationalism. Unfortunately, some people blur the line between the two and get them confused. For the patriot, love of his country is like loving one’s family. Even when my family does things I dislike, I still love them and respect them because of the opportunities they have provided me with, and the brotherhood and closeness I owe to them. Ideally, a patriot should have an unconditional love for his fatherland, because it too is his family. NOT because his fatherland is necessarily the most perfect, most powerful, or better than other countries. But just as family members have a moral obligation to help each other, a citizen has an obligation to assist his country in time of need. A patriot is proud of his country in that he respects it. Patriots are devoted to a cause greater than themselves.

Nationalists are those who would expect that if you are patriotic, you always agree with your country and its actions and decisions. But a democratic country like the United States allows dissenting viewpoints. In fact, the freedom to disagree is not only allowed, but encouraged and cherished. Many who point out faults and problems with our country are very patriotic, if it is indeed constructive criticism. While a nationalist will say his country is better than everyone else’s, a patriot will admit that there are problems and give constructive criticisms to remedy them. A person who is neither a nationalist or a patriot will consider moving to Canada.

Nationalists tend to be fanatic. They view their own country and culture to be better than everyone else’s. They consider dissenting viewpoints or other cultures to be a threat. Nationalists also tend to put their country above the brotherhood of humanity, and even God Himself. This is idolatry, and is in no way desirable.

So patriotism and nationalism are very different things. I would argue that patriotism is very Biblical and desirable, while nationalism is very much the opposite. Dan, if you read this, I would say that what you describe in your quote is nationalism, and that you shouldn’t get these two terms confused.

As far as patriotism being Biblical, I think this can be shown very easily. For example, Moses continually pleaded with God not to destroy Israel after its continued rebellions. Note that he was not being nationalistic and making excuses for what Israel had done, but rather being patriotic – respecting and loving his fatherland and trying to find a way to save it from its sins and transgressions. Nehemiah also showed concern for his homeland – mourning, weeping, praying, and fasting for it. Esther risked her life to save her people. Daniel mourned and prayed for the restoration of his land. Jeremiah is another great example of patriotism. He was branded as unpatriotic for exposing the sins of Israel, when in fact he was actually begging his fellow countrymen to repent of their sins and thereby save his land.

Note the continual use of possessive pronouns. I think one final aspect of patriotism is taking ownership of your homeland. America is MY country. America is YOUR country. Other Americans, much like your brothers in Christ, are OUR brothers.

I hope this provides clarification. Nationalism, like Daniel described above, should be avoided, and is selfish and prideful. Patriotism is a cause greater than yourself, a love and respect for what is yours, and a true desire to better your homeland in any way possible.

I’d love you hear people’s responses.