So obviously in the US it’s no big deal to hang the stars + stripes outside your door but here in the UK it tends to be right-wingers and racists who display the flag prominently (unless there’s a football match or something).. We just aren’t as into national identity as those in America.. I’ve always thought Pakistanis are pretty nationalistic as well..
Do you think it’s a positive or negative thing to be v.nationalistic and **why **do you think some are more nationalistic than others?
Re: What makes people from certain countries more nationalistic than others?
its just that the national front type ppl started hanging flags as their way so the sensible people did not want to get bundled with that garbage group. but union jack is pretty prominently diplayed in other ways, whether it is in lining of ben sherman jackets, bags at river island, union jack products at Next..on tins and boxes of tea, chocolate etc etc.
National pride is fine, the jingoistic view that parades as national pride for some is not, just like in politics, being conservative is fine, but parading one's racist, thuggish, bigoted views under the cover of 'conservative principles' is a mockery.
Re: What makes people from certain countries more nationalistic than others?
America / Canada is different, as their "nationhood" is not based on one ethnic group. America has other issues like under the garb of "supporting the troops", you can pretty much wash away anything. Sure, we don't have martial laws here, but you really can't criticize the military for its errors / weaknesses lest you are labelled an unAmerican, pinhead etc.
Re: What makes people from certain countries more nationalistic than others?
Could strong achievements/recognition ( especially economic and otherwise...and on a global scale) lead to a greater feeling of nationalism? I think that plays a role. Upbringing can also have an influence. It's good to have some pride in your country...but not to the extent that it leads to discrimination, unwarranted violence, and the view that another group's suffering is less important than that of the one you belong to. I also find it off-putting when people get so caught up in their nationalism that they can't hear any discussion about the problem areas of their country.....and even from someone belonging to their country....they're seen as being a hater or anti-whatever. We have a few such folks on here as well, lol...GASP. Turning a blind eye to issues and sweeping them under the rug never did any good.
I also think it's funny how people get worked up over how a celebrity, whose lifestyle is so far from the average person and vast majority.....and who does something scandalous...and is then taken to represent the general population, which is unreasonable, LOL. But..meh....then again when someone does something wonderful....it's the same thing....they're taken to represent the majority and people associate themselves with the accomplishment...though they really had nothing to do with it.