Patriotism can be expressed in various forms – some are easily noticeable (such as Ancient Patriotism) whereas others are more quitely expressed (such as civil patriotism).
In the following entry I’m going to elaborate on my categorization and what connects all of these forms in a modern western/democratic nation.
(Note: This blog entry is a translation of the German entry: Neuer Patriotismus)
Categorization
| Form | Definition |
| Ancient Patriotism | Ancient Patriotism describes the kind of patriotism that builds on the national identity and therefore on the history of the country, the language(s), and the culture in general. In regard to the values it leans more towards conservatism. While it focuses mainly on its own culture, it doesn’t exclude paying respect to foreign cultures. |
| Civil Patriotism | Civil Patriotism is also by nature cultural, however that can also include current/modern culture. Contrary to Ancient Patriotism, it is mostly in the background. The writings of poets and philo- sophers (i.e. that also includes scientists, politicians, etc.) are being valued whereby modern authors are also included. There’s an interest in preserving social-political achievements. In the 21st century, it can also include the appreciation of foreign cultures – like it is done by proletarian patriotism. |
| Proletarian Patriotism | Proletarian patriotism has its roots in the year 1907. As it is described by Karl Kautsky in the issue „Patriotismus und Sozialdemokratie“: „The patriotism of the proletariat includes the idea of international solidarity, the idea that prosperity and culture of one’s own nation can only flourish if they go hand in hand with the prosperity and culture of other nations.“ (page 8, paragraph 3) Along with that comes a support of the extension of the welfare state and support of social reforms. A common ground with Civil Patriotism and Ancient Patriotism is the appreciation of culture, with the difference that the cultures of other nations are also included. The patriotism of the proletariat also opposes the exploitation and oppression of other people and the own people by multinational companies and governments. |
The Connecting Ribbon
While there are already common elements, the fundament of each category is democracy.
The preservance and protection of the democratic constitution, the institutions and the individual and collective rights are at their core.
There are still conflicts between the different forms of patriotism, but such conflicts are normal and even desired in a vivid democracy.
End
The most important thing is mutual respect between the people of different nations.
If one’s identity is strongly rooted in the country of birth, it also implies that the identity of other peoples are respected and recognized. After all, no one can decide in which nation they are born into.
While the categorization hopefully helps as an orientation for some, it is important to add that it doesn’t mean that there isn’t a spectrum of patriotism (i.e. one can more strongly identify with civil patriotism but still have characteristics of proletarian patriotism).
Baroque 