What is a Patriot … and how should he act?
November 12th 2006 19:36
Image: glenngreenwald.blogspot.com
I’ve always been wary of anyone claiming to be a patriot. I have this vision of a ‘hand on heart, flag waving, even goose-stepping fanatic’ chanting about dying for king and country. I know this is a little extreme, but then, they can be.
This book addresses the blatant abuse of power and illegal activities of the Bush administration since declaring war on terrorism in 2001. I’m no legal eagle and at times I found myself bogged down in legal speak, but generally it can be waded through and understood clearly that this American government lies and breaks laws made by congress and the American people. It has been no secret for awhile now that Bush and his crowd have been up to no good, and as much as we love Michael Moore and his humorous approach to politics, Greenwald gives us a no nonsense guide to how completely unethical and unconstitutional Bush and his administration is.
In chapter four Patriotism Beyond Politics, Greenwald writes … “Contrary to the central deceit manufactured by Bush defenders over the last five years, patriotism is not defined by loyalty to a particular elected official or political party.” And, “True patriotism is measured by the extent to which one believes in, and is willing to fight for and defend, the defining values and core principles of our country.” Yet, as Greenwald points out, these core principles and values are constantly being ignored and/or abused by the president.
The psychologist in me loved chapter five, Fear As A Weapon. The author explains clear and simple how the government used fear to control and high-jack a nation of frightened people. Too much power has always meant trouble. There are plenty of historical examples proving this, which is why we have so many safe-guards and checks and balances in our government systems. It is a shame there has not been a law passed that prevents any government having complete control of all houses! Greenwald also condemns the practice of Bush and his supporters of naming anyone who disagrees with his actions as unpatriotic and even an enemy of the country. This is not only unethical, it is extremely dangerous that a government considers itself outside of reproach.
It would be nice to think that we can ignore all this and let them go about their business, no matter how badly, but as we all know, America’s power affects us all and we must be concerned with these issues. Howard is always telling us that America is Australia's friend and we must support and nurture that relationship. What then, Mr. Howard do we do when our friend misbehaves? Do we follow blindly, giving into peer pressure like a confused teenager, or do we make our own decisions, based on sound reasoning and moral values?
So, after reading this book I was even more elated at the latest US election results. My faith in democracy has been renewed, and I feel maybe, just maybe, the average person has got a brain of their own after all. What do you think?
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Comment by Damo