Why Pride? Part XII. The Dual Nature of National Identity ➕➖

What emotions do you see in this face?

National pride, while a potentially positive force, can become dangerous when it morphs into national chauvinism – an excessive and unfounded sense of superiority based on one's national identity. This can lead to a disregard for other nations and cultures, and sometimes even xenophobic attitudes.

Manifestations of False Pride

Glory's empty shell

                                    

Here are some examples that illustrate false pride at the national level:

• Exaggerating National Achievements: Boasting about a country’s accomplishments without acknowledging the contributions of other nations or recognizing global efforts.
• Denying National Shortcomings: Refusing to acknowledge or address issues within one’s own country, such as social injustices or historical wrongdoings.
• Disparaging Other Cultures: Belittling or mocking other cultures and traditions, claiming one’s own national culture is superior.
• Overzealous Patriotism: Insisting that one’s country is always right and refusing to see the validity of other countries’ perspectives or policies.

Historical Examples of Dictatorships Impacted by False Pride

Echoes of Empire

These examples illustrate the severe consequences unchecked national pride, often fueled by dictatorial leaders, can have on their nations, people, and humanity as a whole:

• Nazi Germany: National chauvinism played a significant role in the rise of Hitler’s Nazi Germany. Dictators often cultivate this false pride by exaggerating national achievements, demonizing other nations, and suppressing dissent, all to consolidate their power. This manipulation of national sentiment was evident in Nazi Germany's use of propaganda to promote Aryan supremacy, ultimately leading to horrific acts against humanity, including the Holocaust.
• Joseph Stalin's Soviet Union: Stalin's dictatorship in the Soviet Union is another example of hubris. His ruthless pursuit of absolute power and the forced collectivization of agriculture resulted in widespread famine, mass purges, and the suffering of millions.
• Mao Zedong's China: Mao's rule in China, particularly during the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, showcased how a leader's pride provided a damaging national ideology that led to disastrous policies, and the liquidation of the best people of the nation, causing famine (one of them "The Holodomor") and social upheaval.
• Kim Jong-un's North Korea: In modern times, North Korea under the Kim dynasty is a prime example of a dictatorship where the ruling family's pride and cult of personality have resulted in human rights abuses, terrible poverty, and a closed society.
• Saddam Hussein's Iraq: Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq was marked by authoritarianism, false pride, and brutal suppression of dissent, leading to conflicts such as the Gulf War.

Positive Expressions of National Pride

Running for freedom, justice, and equality

However, national pride can also be a powerful and positive force when it’s inclusive and grounded in universal values such as freedom, justice, equality, and respect for human rights. Here are some examples:

• Civic Nationalism

Success and challenges: The story of Singapore's civic nationalism

 This form of pride is inclusive and open to all who respect a country’s institutions and laws. For example, Singapore offers a highly successful model of civic nationalism where national identity transcends ethnic divisions. The country explicitly promotes a multiracial, meritocratic society where citizens are united by commitment to national goals, economic development, and core legal/political principles. It's important to note, however, that Singapore has faced criticism regarding freedom of speech and other civil liberties.

• Cultural Achievements

Music unites us

Pride in a nation’s cultural heritage, such as literature, music, art, and historical achievements, can foster a sense of unity and identity. The Eurovision Song Contest serves as an example of peaceful competition based on the equality of all participants, independent of country of origin.

• Scientific and Technological Advancements

Reaching for the stars

Celebrating a nation’s contributions to science and technology can inspire true pride and encourage future innovations. The United States cultivates pride in Silicon Valley as a global technology epicenter, NASA's space exploration achievements, and its leading role in computer science, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research.

• Sports: Athletic competitions, like the Olympics, often bring a sense of healthy national pride as citizens cheer for their country’s athletes.
• Humanitarian Efforts

From fjords to global aid

Norway stands as a global humanitarian leader, donating the highest amount of humanitarian aid per capita worldwide. With just 5.4 million citizens, Norway's commitment to international support is remarkable, transforming national wealth into global compassion. While Norway is a humanitarian leader, it's important to acknowledge that it faces its own set of societal challenges.

These examples reflect how national pride, when focused on universal values and achievements, can contribute to a positive sense of identity and community at the national level, bringing wealth and prosperity to all. Ultimately, the challenge lies in cultivating a sense of national pride that celebrates a nation's achievements while remaining grounded in universal values and respect for the global community.

But what happens when group pride takes a darker turn?  Explore the dangers of group hubris, a key factor in the rise of national chauvinism, in Part X of the "Why Pride?" series.

Conclusion

Explore the ruins of Nathan's ambition.

National pride can be a force for good or ill. My psycho-thriller "Melissa" explores a different kind of pride, but one with equally powerful consequences. Find out more at https://rbjal.com/melissa.

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