Who agrees with Orwell's view of patriotism?

Question

In 1984 he describes patriotism through one of the characters as something to make sure the proletariats are willing to die in wars and work longer hours. I entirely agree. Do you agree/disagree with this?

Answer 1

yes..ok..i agree

Answer 2

I understand where you are coming from but not sure I entirely agree. Part of the problem with the world today, is the increasing number of people that are willing to die for their beliefs - albeit it, that passions are stirred up by Government decisions.

I consider myself patriotic - I am proud to be English and love the multi-cultural makeup of England, and indeed, the UK. However, I feel that patriotism in increasingly viewed as racism and that freedom of speech has been compromised by this - surely, Orwell's big brother world would do nothing but make this land a place of fear and hatred.

Answer 3

"Naturally the common people don't want war; neither in Russia, nor in England, nor in America, nor in Germany. That is understood. But after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine policy, and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country."

Hermann Goering at the Nuremberg trials.


"Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel."

Boswell: Life

Answer 4

I disagree with Orwell as he intended his view to mean a blind obedience. I think that this view diminishes the great sacrifice of the millions who died in the 1st and 2nd World War to protect the freedom of not only their own Country but of Countries occupied by hostile armies - particularly those who volunteered. I believe that patriotism in its truest sense is the informed decision that a person makes to serve and protect their Country whether it is at war or not. This includes those countless volunteers without whom any country would grind to a halt e.g. carers, school boards, charity workers etc.

Answer 5

"If I should have to choose between betraying my country or betraying my friend I hope I should have the guts to betray my country" E. M. Forster

Depends on the circumstances but the law would expect a woman to betray her beloved if he were plotting a terrorist act. That may be just but I can feel a lot of compassion for someone caught in such a terrible situation.

Pride in one's country is generally a good thing as long as one does ignore or be apathetic about the bad things. No country or political system is perfect but in a stable society there is a constant improvement as people lobby to correct injustices and we should all support such campaigners and groups with either money or time.

Answer 6

Orwell lived in Burma as a British policeman, and his prophecy of 1984 is chillingly like Burma today, His stint there disillusioned him about patriotism. That's why he came out with such masterpieces as "Down and Out in London and Paris" as well as "1984" Animal Farm" and "Letters from Catalonia" He was against ideology, fanaticism and extreme patriotism. George Bush and Osama bin Laden, please listen!

Answer 7

Patriotism is to live happy and fulfilling life.Such people support themselves,family and society with the sense of proportion (not to damage others, not to damage themselves) and satisfy personal inborn yearnings.They are independent but co-operative in thoughts,feelings and deeds.Their motto can be; good relationship with society (all the living beings and environment),knowledge and work.

Answer 8

I don't - that view he shows is a blind fanatic faith and patriotism is constantly challenged while defending freedoms even freedoms you don"t condone.

Like Patrick Henry said, I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the deat your right to say it. Now that is patriotism.

Answer 9

I don't agree with Orwell's view in principle, because I regard patriotism as KEEPING (our) government in check ; however, "patriotism" today is really blind nationalism in desguise and is being employed in precisely that fashion.