Why nationalism?

https://img112.imageshack.us/img112/2194/rikss1ue9.gif


As the topic indicated, why nationalism (yes, the topic is stolen from Bijo's thread)?

Recently, in connection with the military parade in Warsaw, I've been reminded on just how ignorant nationalism makes us. If there are any nationalists among the orgahs, would you be so kind as to let me know what triggers your (highly irrational, I must say) love for your country - whatever it might be? Because I really can't see why anyone would love a geographic area surrounded by imaginative borders.

A Swedish nationalist I once spoke with claimed nationalism to be an act of love, and nothing negative in any way. Being proud of your "roots" and loving your fellow countrymen sounds like a good idea, right? Unfortunately, that is total BS. Every single thing that separates people from another, that divides them into groups and alienates them will lead to conflicts and possibly chauvinism. Not to mention it also seems to erade people's sense of self, making them self-righteous bastards really, and being alienated in itself is bad enough. In the long run, nationalism leads to such things as imperialism and we-against-them situations (America vs. all Muslims, Nazi Germany vs. all non-Aryans).

Another negative aspect of nationalism becomes evident in a (more or less) historical forum like this: Nationalism does terrible things to history writing and only creates bias. Glorifying your own history is among the most sad things you can do IMO, but then again I live by the principle "Nothing is holy" and pretty much laugh/spit at everyhting. Now, enough with me stating my opinion, it's a thread for discussion after all.

Is nationalism in fact something we should embrace and appreaciate (I have voiced my opinion) or is it as terrible as I make it sound? What does the Orgahs think?


Edit: Added the Swedish national coat of arms for irony.

Do you really think you're going to get an open dialogue when you begin your post by describing the opposing viewpoint as ignorant, irrational and self-righteous bastards?

Nationalism is a grey term. It means different things to different people. Why don't you begin by offering your definition of nationalism, so people will know whether you mean them or not.

Indeed - an extremely bad start if you were hpoing for a good discussion that shows you the different views on the issue.

If you are genuinely interested to understand other people's views, please start another thread that shows this intent.

This thread is closed as it is rather an invitation to respond in a belligerent/defensive way.