In general, I think of patriotism as a virtue, as concern for the welfare of one's community and pride in the goodness found in that community. I think it's a good thing to appreciate purple mountains and amber waves and (generally) peaceful ethnic diversity as precious gifts, and to revere a flag as a symbol of those blessings. People like the "Tea Party Patriots" redefine the word into something obnoxious, but I think the basic meaning of "patriotism" is still a positive thing. I see "jingoism" and "nationalism" as the evil counterparts of the virtue of patriotism. -Joe-
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