If "dissent is the highest form of patriotism," are there any issues you would NOT apply this to?

Question

I hear that phrase used a lot, and I want to understand it better.

I suppose a KKK member attacking civil rights laws, or someone trying to take away women's right to vote, would be "dissenting" from existing government policy. But support of civil rights is an important and noble characteristic of our country.

So, when is dissent patriotic, and when it it not?

Answer 1

Dissent is unpatriotic when there is a war going on, and the dissent undermines our efforts and succors the enemy.

Answer 2

In my opinion the right to dissent is one of the cornerstones of the American political system. To perceive an injustice and not speak out is cowardice. At times, we may even be required to dissent in the face of severe persecution. We told the Nazi's that "only following orders" was not a legitimate defense against prosecution for war crimes.

That's why I support both the 'right' and 'left' in legitimate discussion of issues.

I do not support name calling on either side, nor spewing rant without facts, but we all have the right to dissent.

Answer 3

Dissent for it's own sake obviously isn't patriotic. When you honestly believe that the best thing for your country is diametrically opposed to the current consensus, then, at least in your mind, you're being 'patriotic.' The rest of the country may disagree, however.

A better example of patriotism would be expressing your dissent, even while serving your country. And, I'd think that expressing dissent in even-headed terms is more patriotic than doing so in histrionic rants. It's one thing to say that you feel that your fellow Americans have made the wrong choice, it's another to, say, accuse them of imbicility or (on the other extreme) fiendishly clever conspiricies.

Answer 4

The founding fathers recognized that, only through discussion will we find the truth. If only one side of an issue is presented, we will not have enough data to make an informed decision. And so, we must embrace those who have a different opinion than our own.

When is it unpatriotic? Disagreement, in and of itself, is not unpatriotic. But, when protests are used to as a tool to block the democratic process or obstruct the ability of the government to operate, the protesters could be considered to be acting against the government. All voices should be heard in our government, but the form of expression used should not block the ability to continue to operate the govenment.

KKK members have a right to speak whether we agree with them or not, but they do not have the right to prevent others from also expressing their opinions. That would be unpatriotic.

Answer 5

As long as you are not doing something Unconstitutional or illegal you are a patriot if you dissent specially if it is to maintain the law and the constitution.

Answer 6

When you agree with me and dissent from my detractors, you are only then a true, patriotic American...


George W. Bush

Answer 7

when its true decent
and not just parroting the kool aid line handed down from the psychos, or bong induced dissent
such as " yeah dude, bush llliieed man , whew whew "
awsome gnarly tasty waves dude "
yaaa dude pass the bong man bush is a cowboy man

Answer 8

As Always - History will Decide.

Answer 9

Only if you feel it is righteous and ,under civilization's circumstances approved!

Answer 10

One should NEVER speak out against their government, especially if a Republican is in the White House.