In the United States today, it is unthinkable to question patriotism. Given that most Americans see patriotism as a virtue in and of itself, all politicians adorn themselves with American flag lapels, regardless of their private misgivings or cynicism toward such gestures. To the extent that some Americans even acknowledge that patriotism can be abused, anyone bold enough to identify such abuses are quick to articulate an acceptable definition of patriotism that insulates themselves from being labeled "unpatriotic" or "anti-American."
Patriotism is not a virtue. In fact, it is quite the opposite; patriotism is a form of political indoctrination responsible for horrendous human carnage. If we are to stop this legacy of violence, we must acknowledge that glorifying militant divisions within the human race is an anathema to world peace.
Renouncing patriotism is not a new or radical idea. As my video (linked below the jump) demonstrates, many historical figures and intellectuals have rightly condemned patriotism for its evils, and have emphasized the primacy of our universal human identity. As we find ourselves in an ever-globalizing world, it is time that we denounce patriotism once and forever for the irrational barbarism that it is.
My video:
Three possible objections might be raised to an unqualified rejection of patriotism.
First, some may attempt to differentiate between patriotism and nationalism. I reject such a distinction. A selective nationalism that seeks to celebrate only the positive ideals and accomplishments of a nation is no less nonsensical or inappropriate. Should Germans celebrate Adolf Hitler's birthday because he oversaw some positive accomplishments? Should Southern courthouses fly Confederate flags as a symbol of "heritage" rather than racial hatred? No. Positive ideals and accomplishments can be celebrated on their own accord; they do not need to be subsumed within broader nationalist propaganda.
Second, some might say that criticizing patriotism disrespects the sacrifices of those who have served in the military. Military sacrifices can likewise be celebrated on their own merit, to the extent that a soldier believed he or she was defending innocents from harm or promoting some other coherent moral principle. Tragically, such sacrifices have often been made unnecessarily because of patriotism in the first place. Celebrating a soldier's arbitrary membership in a geopolitical community has nothing to do with her integrity or valor.
Third, it may be argued that patriotism can be exploited for good. Abraham Lincoln invoked patriotism to end slavery, for example. This is true, but the vast weight of historical evidence has proven the opposite. Patriotism has been responsible for more global death and destruction than any other ideology - race or religion included - and it is appropriate that we recognize its inherent tendency toward abusive militarism.