A very common theme I find in some people’s self declaration is that they are Patriotic, but not Nationalists. A head-scratcher for many, is there really a difference? Aren’t they just synonyms?
In the basic sense, yes they are. Most middle school teachers won’t cut your marks for using one instead of the other in the essay. But where they differ is the degree, or intensity, or even some ontological priorities. In simple terms, they could be seen in the same degree of variance as words Hot and Scalding differ. In fact, if you search for the difference, you’ll find detailed discussions on the topic. An example could be seen in these articles
1) https://www.merriam-webster.com/grammar/patriotism-vs-nationalism
2) https://www.dictionary.com/e/patriotism-vs-nationalism/
By giving the disclaimer, people simply are trying to signal their understanding of this nuance, and their position on the spectrum. But, are they really thinking through the nuanced lens, or is it just an attempt at wordcelling to obscure one’s agenda.
Let’s look at simple definitions for one, taken from dictionary.com
Patriotism is, “devoted love, support, and defense of one’s country; national loyalty.”
While Nationalism is defined as “the policy or doctrine of asserting the interests of one’s own nation viewed as separate from the interests of other nations or the common interests of all nations.”
While any thinking person may easily decipher, that Patriotism is milder while, Nationalism can be excessive. But, here the question lies, those who emphasize being Patriotic rather than Nationalist, are they really practicing what they preach. How often do you see them weakening the defence in garb of criticism? How often do you see them supportive of one’s own over others? How often do you see them being fully devoted?
A key difference between Patriotism vs Nationalism is, that Nationalism often dives into a regime of one’s superiority over others. But nowhere in the definition of Patriotism, does it mean to compromise one’s own in favour of others. But alas, the degree of loyalty needed to at least be a Patriot is lost on many.
For all post-modern thinking obscuring the definition of Nationalism, it still has another meaning, “a nation’s wish and attempt to be politically independent.”
Being politically independent is not just about having democratic elections, it is about our Nation’s place in the world. It is about not having to worry about outsiders in countering a threat which hampers the nation in any way. It is about having a say in global affairs, and not having to tow someone’s line. We may have gained independence over 75 years ago, but we still have some work to do before we gain Political independence.
I don’t know where I lie on the post-modern Patriot-Nationalist spectrum, but I don’t care. In my own eyes, I am a Nationalist. I don’t need any self justifications for it. I’m not blind to the challenges my nation still has to overcome, but overcoming those and keeping their own interests above anything are all the same.
Think It Yourself 