Quotation by

Henry Louis Gates

Patriotism is best exemplified through auto-critique.

Patriotism

Understanding this quote AI Analysis

Henry Louis Gates means that truly loving your country involves honestly examining its flaws and mistakes. Instead of blind loyalty, genuine patriotism requires self-reflection and a willingness to improve the nation.

More by this author

All quotes by Henry Louis Gates →

More quotes about Patriotism

See all →

We need a type of patriotism that recognizes the virtues of those who are opposed to us.

These martyrs of patriotism gave their lives for an idea.

Obama has been attacked repeatedly for not wearing a flag pin, with Republicans claiming that his patriotism is in question. It's all a bit silly.

There are no points of the compass on the chart of true patriotism.

The sight of nature fascinates, the family tie has a sweet enchantment and patriotism gives the religious spirit a fiery devotion to the powers that it reveres.

Unfortunately, our history has abundant examples of patriotism being used to hurt those who express views in disagreement with that of the majority.