What does ‘patriotic’ mean? It’s a word that is open to interpretation.

Time to turn to the dictionary! The Oxford Dictionary states, ‘having or expressing devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country.’

I am patriotic when it comes to sports. I will support a British or English player or team.

There are many aspects of our culture – the language, literature and history – which I hold dear. However, I also appreciate the culture of other nations, and I consider myself European.

Patriotism has historically meant a love for and devotion to one’s country of origin. What concerns me is when patriotism is confused with nationalism.

According to the dictionary, ‘nationalism is having or expressing strong identification with one’s own nation and vigorous support for its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations’.

And with that thought, I will finish this post…

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