We teach them to take their patriotism at second-hand; to…
“We teach them to take their patriotism at second-hand; to shout with the largest crowd without examining into the right or wrong of the matter -- exactly as boys under monarchies are taught and have always been taught. We teach them to regard as traitors, and hold in aversion and contempt, such as do not shout with the crowd, and so here in our democracy we are cheering a thing which of all things is most foreign to it and out of place -- the delivery of our political conscience into somebody else's keeping. This is patriotism on the Russian plan.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote criticizes blind patriotism that follows the majority without moral scrutiny, comparing it to obedience under monarchies and warning that true democracy requires independent conscience.
In simple terms: Blind patriotism follows crowds, ignoring right and wrong.
Key Takeaway
Question authority, think independently.
Themes
patriotism
conformity
democracy
critical thinking
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political rallies
- educational curricula
- media consumption
- public debates
Key Concepts
moral autonomy
political conscience
social pressure
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish patriotic duty from unthinking conformity?
- What responsibilities do citizens have to challenge popular opinion?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify complex political dynamics and ignore legitimate collective action.