On Patriotism

For all those pseudo-patriots out there who wrap themselves in the flag,, denouncing any descent as giving aid and comfort to an enemy and characterizing any questioning of authority as unpatriotic:

The difference between patriotism and nationalism is that the patriot is proud of his country for what it does, and the nationalist is proud of his country no matter what it does; the first attitude creates a feeling of responsibility, but the second a feeling of blind arrogance that leads to war.

— Sidney J. Harris (1917-1986)
Columnist for
the Chicago Sun-Times

Patriotism is a lively sense of collective responsibility. Nationalism is a silly cock crowing on its own dunghill and calling for larger spurs and brighter beaks.

— Richard Aldington (1892-1962)
English Poet and Writer