What happened to patriotism?

Answer 1

Patriotism is alive and well. The problem is that it's also used as a political tool -- when conservatives accuse liberals of being unpatriotic and flaunt their own patriotism, it's a natural tendency for the people they're abusing to want to shy away from being what their "crazy enemies" are -- thus enhancing the appearance. Related is the idea that you have to wear red-white-and-blue all the time, fly a gigantic flag, and hate France to be patriotic. When "flaunting it" becomes simply being patriotic, people who just quietly ARE seem like they're not by comparison.

It's a lot like religion in politics -- you have to be loud and proud about it (Bush), or people may view you as not being religious (Kerry), even if you're just naturally quiet about it.

Answer 2

In fighting for independence, survival, growth, prosperity, the progression of American power, ability, economic production and defense technology has created an environment where the personal cost and personal value of freedom and democracy is invisible or not acknowledged.

There are wonderful things surrounding the average American; in comparison to other nations, the average American lives in relative security, economic opportunity and freedoms that are unheard of almost anywhere else. This has been the case for decades. Newer generations feel entitled, politicians 'buy' votes by defending such entitlement and the true cost of defending and perpetuating America is not immediate to the citizen on the street.

When an event or dramatic change directly inhibits these entitlements, so to speak, you will see the American attitude towards nationalism and patriotism change. But so long as we are able to go back to a 'norm', the cost being born by others (military, future tax paying generations, etc.), the comfort level is never impinged upon and the need for patriotism does not make itself blatantly evident.

It wouldn't hurt to let ALL young Americans experience the rest of the world and how they live, in order to appreciate all that previous generations of Americans have fought and died for. In this way, we introduce context to today's entitlements, and maybe attach some value to that freedom, which would generate patriotism in everyone.

Answer 3

Nothing has happened to patriotism it is alive and well in the United states today. Granted it is not fashionable among the main stream press, or the Eastern establishment types, but it is out there none the less. The vast majority of people in this country are proud of what America stands for, and are proud to call themsleves Americans. They believe that America's best days are still ahead of her, and refuse to accept that all is as dark as it seems some time. You won't find these people protesting in the streets because that is not their way. Instead you will find them quietly going about their daily lives, helping to conduct the business that makes America great.

Patriots are the people who support the truth, and believe that freedom should never be taken for granted. They are the people who raise families, teach their children values, and respect for others. They proudly display the flag, and do hokey things like hold their hand over their heart when the Star Spangled Banner is playing at the baseball game. They believe in the power of America to be a force for good in the world, and wish that all could live in peace, but they do not falter when forced to deal with our enemies in the world. They understand that most people are good, no matter their race, color, or religion,but also understand that there is evil in the world that must be dealt with. Patriots are the first to extend a hand to a fellow human in need, and wish that all could know the joyful pride they feel.

Patriots understand that America is not perfect. They know that we will not always do the right thing. They accept that mistakes are a part of life, but believe mistakes can be corrected. They believe in working together for the common good, and do not denigrate their neighbors just because they may not agree with him. Patriots know that they have a compact with their country, that it is their job to support and defend her against all enemies, but also understand that once the fighting is through that they also have an obligation to help rebuild for the sake of all in the world. In short patriotism is everywhere in this great land of ours, all you have to do is open your eyes to it, and let these words of freedom ring true in your heart. Home of the Free, Land of the Brave. Be honest, be positive, care about you neighbors, and do not ever let anyone tell you that America is not a great place to live. The future is, and will continue to be bright, so long as you always keep the faith!

Paulmarkj: I didn't really ask you to support anything. I said be positive, be honest, care about your neighbors, and never let anyone tell that America isn't a great place to live. You certainly have a right to your opinion, but it is still just an opinion. Just as mine is an opinion, and my opinion is no more right or wrong than yours is, so kindly get over yourself.

Answer 4

Patriotism is alive and well,it may need a spark to ignite it in the entire country but Patriotism is still the heart and soul of this great United States Of America.

Answer 5

patriotism has been hijacked by a group of right wing extremists who have used the tragedy of 9-11 to further an imperialist foreign policy.

When George Bush said 'you are either with us or you are with the terrorists' that was a highly calculated and effective response. For six months after that remark, REAL patriots, who had honest and genuine problems with his policies, were called everything from saddam lovers to terrorists themselves.

Patriotism is ALWAYS QUESTIONING YOUR GOVERNMENT. Unfortunately, I fear that FAR too many kids are growing up with a very different idea, thinking that obediance=patriotism, or mindless slogans like 'support the troops'.

Answer 6

There is no return on the investment. The world has 499 Billionaires and 60% of those reside in the U.S.A. The problem is that they invest most of their time and money in China and India and other economies that are booming due to large populations and the forthcoming demands on natural resources. Money goes where it makes more money. Patriotism is for the poor and future-less - anywhere and everywhere!

Answer 7

Quote: "Patriots are the people who support the truth, and believe that freedom should never be taken for granted. They are the people who raise families, teach their children values..."

Wrong.

Patriotism is "Love of and devotion to one's country." it says nothing about whether you are good or bad or how you act in any other way than the support of your country. Many Nazis were patriotic.

Unfortunately patriotism is used by the unscrupulous to force you into supporting them.

Answer 8

It was watered down by all the trash the media puts out about faults with the government and the poor quality of our servicemen. People put too much faith in the junk they see on TV and do not take the time to look at the total picture. We need to spend more time researching the real facts than taking news bits as gospel.

Answer 9

i have no idea after hearing all these cowards on answer i really don't know .we have had lost of bad presidents but never have the peoples ever bash this country so bad .it not about bush any more were soon will have to pull together as a nation and fight theses idiots liberal beside Noe con.politics want matter any more in time of war politics all aside

Answer 10

Nothing, nearly everyone loves America, but not everyone loves Bush. They believe Bush is taking America in the wrong direction and turning America into something to be ashamed of, they are trying to stop that. Whether he is or not that is for you to decide, but many have decided that he is and so are ashamed of Bush, but not America.