Ali Gilani
GOING by the book there is a clear distinction between the definitions of patriotism and nationalism. The former believes to be the embodiment of love, care and positivity at least theoretically. The latter symbolizes aggression, superiority and fascism to some degree. George Orwell believes that patriotism for an individual should be devotion to a particular place, culture and way of life without forcing them on other people. In other words patriotism should be defensive in nature both militarily and culturally. However, in the last few decades the two terms have become inseparable from each other. Because of the unapologetic transformation of patriotism into nationalism, I will be using the term patriotism and make an argument how we take this word for granted.
Contrary to popular belief patriotism has nothing to do with waging wars, thwarting governments and toppling nations. It is more or at the very least should be aligned to personal excellence. Patriotism, in its true essence is an act of defiance against oppression and subjugation of unpopular opinions, bigotry, racism, nepotism, corruption and inhuman treatment of minorities. In a nutshell patriotism is a continuous strive for the betterment of society which influences the nation’s mindset and helps it to rise and prosper.
Unfortunately, patriotism has merely confined to waving flags, chanting slogans on an independence day and posting stories and pictures on social media. The jingoistic stance by some political leaders around the world in order to hide their incompetency or corruption has made matters worse. The injections filled with chauvinistic ideals pushed many nations to their gruesome fate. Nazi Germany comes to mind. The policies of President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Modi are like a rudderless ship which is on its way to collide with the basic values and ethics of any nation. Similarly, the unelected powers in Pakistan have dangerous doctrine in their arsenal and they often propagate it whenever they deem fit only to make the country more prone to aggression and intolerance.
The mentality “us versus them” is a frightening slogan and always overstays its welcome by unravelling the fabric of society leaving nothing but bones and ashes in its wake. No nation or country can rise to top on its military might alone. The commitment of its people and leaders to make their country a place where there is a room for everyone plays a significant role. We must be very vigilant and should not give any space to any leader who advocates intolerance and promotes parochialism. In the words of Samuel Jhonson “patriotism is the refuge of the scoundrel.”
—The writer is an engineer, based in Islamabad.
