Eva Guo (9) | STAFF REPORTER
“O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all of us command.”
Every morning we sing these words to show devotion and respect for our country. Many people show patriotism towards their nation. However when this patriotism is taken to the extreme, it will have negative consequences.
We can usually gain important sessions from history. Let’s remember one of the most devastating wars in human history: World War One. It was officially triggered by the assassination of the Archduke of the Austro-Hungarian Empire by a Serbian patriot. An act of loyalty to one’s country led to the deaths of over 20 million people.
In addition, many people shared the belief that their own country is superior to others, leading to an increase of tension and escalating the war. Although this war happened a century ago, it is still an excellent example of the divide that patriotism causes.
Patriotism is also detrimental to the growth of the nation. Blind loyalty to a country can prevent people from recognizing its mistakes. Those who point out the flaws may be accused of being unloyal. By not acknowledging the fact that one’s country is not perfect and silencing those who criticize it, the progress of the nation will be slowed down or halted completely.
Love for one’s nation does not always benefit the country. Sometimes it causes the opposite effect and leads the country into further turmoil. Like with many situations, it is essential to find that balance and not cross the line.
