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Entry: Further Notes on Nationalism Link: http://www.takimag.com/blogs/article/further_notes_on_nationalism#23548 Post contents: I have appreciated this exchange: particularly, the exchange between Scott and Dan. I find Scott's position more convincing. I also believe that Aaron Wolf raises a very interesting point about what constitutes a "nation." I was wondering: what about the relation of patriotism properly understood to size. Is it truly possible today to be patriot in the U.S.today: given its size and global ambitions? Does empire alway lead to nationalism-in the sense of extending one's ideas and hubris around the world? Doesn't patriotism equate with a love of that which is most familiar; of the land and folks you know the best, who are in closest proximity of you...In the end, isn't empire (in whatever manifestation) simply another form of nationalism? In some instances, this nationalism has been spurred on by either a sentimental humanitarianism or an overwrought utilitarian self-interest, but its simply a variation on the same phenomenon: nationalism. So, the "values" conservative who votes for Bush b/c he feels compelled out of a misguided sense of loyalty and calls it patriotism, simply has it wrong. His impulse is rooted in a nationalistic sentiment, which he falsely assumes is the same as patriotism. Sent at: 2008 08 30