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How To Show Patriotism Vs Political Activism

 

What is the difference between these two ideologies (if any)? They can both be controversial topics. Both words are often given negative connotations by the other side, but they share more in common than they appear at first glance. What are the differences, and how do they manifest themselves in reality?

 

Political Activism Versus Patriotism: What’s The Difference?

From the outside, these two things may appear similar, but they have specific differences. Patriotism is an emotional attachment to your country, while political activism is a type of action that confronts the government on issues. The use of flags often personifies this, and the Vexillologists at ultimateflags.com claim flags can be used to honor ideas, principles, and virtues. Patriotism can be defined as “love of or devotion to one’s country,” with its basis in the idea that one’s nation is composed of many groups with shared interests and values. It can also be characterized by national pride, support for democratic governments, and support for the military when needed. 

 

On the other hand, political activists are fighting for their rights against injustice or corruption in society, which they believe will make their community better in some way. These activists are fighting against laws that they feel are unjust by boycotting products or even breaking them. They have been known to protest these laws by lying down in the middle of a busy intersection, blocking traffic, and wearing costumes. However, it is worth digging a little deeper to discover what makes each ideology different.

Patriotism

Patriotism is a feeling that derives from the idea of belonging to and supporting one’s country. It is often expressed through emotions such as pride in one’s nation, love for its people, and the desire to work to protect it. In recent years, the definition of patriotism has been expanded to include more than just being an outward sign of nationalism. It consists of a willingness to fight for one’s community and personal sacrifices for the greater good of society. In some cases, it can even involve resisting the tyranny of a foreign power. Some of the more common ways that patriots display their allegiances include:

Have A Belief That Building A Nation Is The Way To Change A Nation

This is perhaps the most critical distinction between patriots and political activists in the sense that they believe you can only change a nation by building it up rather than tearing it down. I.e., work within the system to change it rather than tearing it down and starting over.

Displaying Flags

While some countries view flags differently than others, most people view them as integral to showing patriotism. People display banners on their houses or cars to show their patriotism or support for a particular cause. People also fly them on boats, buildings, among other things. This is because of the symbolism and meaning that flags carry.

Voting

Voting is an essential part of showing your patriotic virtues as it displays a civic responsibility. Although the party you vote for doesn’t matter (it’s the act of voting counts), most enthusiastic patriots will often let others know about their political choices.

Supporting The Military And Law Enforcement

In keeping society safe as part of national pride, people show their support by supporting those in positions of authority.

Having A Deep Understanding Of Constitutional Laws

Many patriots will be able to cite numerous constitutional laws when challenged. Patriots of all political ideologies believe the constitution is sacred because it is the source of all freedoms (according to the nation).

Political activists

Political activism actively supports a social cause or movement, including lobbying for social, economic, or political change. Activists may be involved in direct action to make policy changes to bring about social change. They can show their beliefs in the following ways:

 

Have A Belief That Tearing Down A Nation Is The Way To Change A Nation

In contrast to patriots, political activists may believe that changing the society from the outside by tearing down existing institutions and rebuilding it in a more inclusive way would be more beneficial. On the surface, this may seem damaging, but an activist may be sincere in wanting to improve the community and the country but go about it differently.

Civil Disobedience

Civil disobedience is a form of political and social activism that involves a deliberate, peaceful violation of law or social rules by a large group of people intending to achieve political change. Its character is distinguished by acts that aim to undermine an unjust status quo and principles on which that status quo is based.

Boycott

Boycotts have been a popular way of fighting for social justice. Activists, governments, and individuals have employed them to express personal beliefs about an issue or a situation. Patriotic individuals can also use boycotts, but it is more commonly associated with political activism.

Grassroots Movements

Grassroots movements are those that have been created by those who are not typically in power and have been able to make a change in society. Activities can be considered grassroots when it is not at the top of a pyramid but rising from the bottom.

 

Politics, patriotism, and political activism are all terms that can be used interchangeably. There are many aspects of society that each section believes belong to it to fight, but those aspects are often used by the other. Furthermore, a patriot can be a political activist and vice versa. Nonetheless, the key differences are usually found in the way they display their feelings.