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The difference between patriotism and nationalism is that the patriot is proud of his country for what it does, and the nationalist is proud of his country no matter what it does; the first attitude creates a feeling of responsibility, but the second a feeling of blind arrogance that leads to war.
Sydney J. Harris
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Patriotism is pride based on actions, while nationalism is pride regardless of actions, leading to responsibility versus arrogance.

This quote by Sydney J. Harris distinguishes between patriotism and nationalism, suggesting that a true patriot takes pride in their country based on its positive actions and values, fostering a sense of responsibility towards its citizens and the world. In contrast, nationalism, characterized by an unquestioning pride in one's country regardless of its actions, can lead to a dangerous and blind arrogance that contributes to conflict and war.

Themes

PatriotismNationalismResponsibilityArroganceWar

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about global conflicts, this quote can be used to highlight the dangers of blind nationalism.

More from Sydney J. Harris

A person is either himself or not himself; is either rooted in his existence or is a fabrication; has either found his humanhood or is still playing with masks and roles and status symbols. And nobody is more aware of this difference (although unconsciously) than a child. Only an authentic person can evoke a good response in the core of the other person; only person is resonant to person.
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We evaluate others with a Godlike justice, but we want them to evaluate us with a Godlike compassion.
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The commonest fallacy among women is that simply having children makes them a mother - which is as absurd as believing that having a piano makes one a musician.
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Man's unique agony as a species consists in his perpetual conflict between the desire to stand out and the need to blend in.
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"Terrorism" is what we call the violence of the weak, and we condemn it; "war" is what we call the violence of the strong, and we glorify it.
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At it's highest level, the purpose of teaching is not to teach—it is to inspire the desire for learning. Once a student's mind is set on fire, it will find a way to provide its own fuel.
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