Nationalism Isn’t Patriotism

French President Emmanuel Macron’s warning for an awakening is crucial for world peace and stability.

English Oxford Dictionary:

Patriotism is defined as “devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country.” 

Nationalism is the “identification with one’s own nation and support for its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations.” 

A patriot takes pride in his/her country in providing support to other nations and individuals. 

A Nationalist only takes pride in what his/her country does for them with NO regard for the betterment of mankind worldwide.   

President Trump has declared himself to be a Nationalist.  On October 22 in Houston, Texas he stated; “You know what I am? I’m a nationalist, OK? I’m a nationalist. Nationalist! Use that word. Use that word…”    

President Trump has established the principles of nationalism as his political platform.  It is clearly his goal to create an unqualified acceptance and belief in that doctrine.  He is working to implement, solidify and ingrain those ideals into the American fabric as the primary, if not sole, basis for future thought and behavior.  

 France’s President Emmanuel Macron recognizes this as moral decay within a nation and therefore one of greatest threats posed to America and the world at large.  

Excerpt Macron’s Armistice Day Speech – Paris France – November 11, 2018 

 “Patriotism is the exact opposite of nationalism. Nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism. By saying our interests first… we erase what a nation holds dearest, what gives it life, what gives it grace, and what is essential: its moral values.” 

“Nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism by saying, ‘our interest first, who cares about the others?" 

Macron’s comments where not just directed at President Trump and the spread of nationalism worldwide.  He demonstrated the historic reality that nationalism was directly responsible for both world wars, especially world war I. 

This is a debate that is not ensuing in America and is crucial to prevent the further spread and acceptance of such a callous self-serving philosophy.