Is Nationalism Bad?
Many people certainly think so
“And … he’s a nationalist!”
I was having a conversation with a relative several years ago about a certain well-known political figure. We were discussing several objectionable aspects about this person’s character, and my relative then added: “And can you believe … he’s a nationalist?”
Her tone was a combination of astonishment and outrage.
How could anyone be a nationalist?
Since today is Flag Day, I thought I would revisit that conversation from years ago and put that question out here on Medium:
Is it wrong to be a nationalist?
First, it’s helpful to define our terms. After all, Socrates once said: “The beginning of wisdom is the definition of terms.”
So, what is nationalism?
The first definition that comes up via Merriam-Webster’s website is “loyalty and devotion to a nation.”
Okay. That doesn’t sound overly objectionable.
When I was in school, we said the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag every morning. In 1990, I joined the Virginia Army National Guard. I took an oath of allegiance to the Constitution of the United States as part of my enlistment. I did the same years…
