Nationalism Quote by Ellen Key
“Whereas nationalism still seeks power, honour, and glory through means that endanger other countries, patriotism knows that a country's strength and honour can only be permanently safeguarded through concourse with other countries. And whereas nationalism scoffs at the idea of international laws and regulations, patriotism seeks to create such.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Nationalism vs Patriotism, Ellen Key, early 20th century
Nationalism pursues power and glory often at others' expense, while patriotism seeks lasting strength through cooperation and international law.
In simple terms: Nationalism seeks power; patriotism seeks cooperation.
Key Takeaway
Promote collaborative policies over aggressive nationalism.
Themes
politics
ethics
international relations
cooperation
sovereignty
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- government diplomacy
- NGO partnerships
- multinational corporations
- educational curricula
- community initiatives
Key Concepts
nationalism
patriotism
global governance
interdependence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance national pride with global responsibility?
- What mechanisms ensure international laws are respected?
A Different Perspective
Patriotism can be co‑opted by governments to justify militarism.
![“[Large countries'] patriotism is different: they are buoyed by their glory, their importance, their universal mission. The Czechs loved their country not because it was glorious but because it was unknown; not because it was big but because it was small and in constant danger. Their patriotism was…” quote by Milan Kundera](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ee5/milan-kundera-120_goals_large-countries-patriotism-is-different_269243.jpg)
![“The very nature of economics is rooted in nationalism. ... It [was] developed ... in the hope of throwing light upon questions of policy. But policy means nothing unless there is an authority to carry it out, and authorities are national.” quote by Joan Robinson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/eba/joan-robinson-11438_authority_the-very-nature-of-economics-is-rooted-i_15974.jpg)
