I just came across this especially interesting Girl Gone London video, in which she, a fairly young American woman who has lived in London for ten years, begins to outline the differences between nationalism and patriotism, and how the two differ depending on which side of the Atlantic you are on. What she says strikes me as increasingly relevant: in the States, kids are forced to recite the Oath of Allegiance every morning; a blind love of country is almost demanded, and any form of national criticism is deeply scorned.

I replied that I was born in the UK, in cheshire, but now live in South-East London. I think it’s fair to say that I love my country: I love things like cricket, british comedy and quaint little pubs. However, I also adore London as a city, the tube, the theatres, and what happened here in 2012 etc. I love that it’s so multicultural, inviting, and that you can meet people from all over the world here. I’m staunchly opposed to Brexit as I think working with our neighbours is the only way we can solve our problems. I don’t think these positions are incompatible: you can love your country and desire global unity at the same time. The problem is, in america, the notion of loving your country seems to mean rejecting all others; the blind belief in american exceptionalism. Patriotism there seems to have a far darker, sinister aspect to it. Frankly, particularly since last year, American patriotism has become particularly dangerous.

Whereas my love for the UK does not exclude an enthusiasm to experience and explore other other places and cultures, American patriotism seems to be becoming increasingly dogmatic and cult-like. The idea that one’s own culture supersedes all others again recalls the darkest chapters in history. This video is worth watching because it illuminates how perverse American patriotism is becoming, and especially since last year I think it is a real cause for concern.