Is this the greatest country in the world? Are we number one? If so, what are we number one at? What are the reasons for the high ranking?
Okay, I can see how for a segment of the population, “we” excel at nationalistic pride. So we’re number one at feeling we are number one. Hmm.
One thing is certain, there are a number of things we aren’t best at. For instance, a recent study wore this headline:
Canadians lead longer, healthier lives than Americans
Well cross that one off the list of things we’re best at.
One of the things about being a freethinker is that I feel free to question and criticize . . . religion, yes, but also such things as popular national sentiments. Heaven forbid.
Is national pride a good thing? Are we really number one?
By asking those questions I have just eliminated the possibility of my ever running for government on the republican ticket. (Nothing lost, there. But still.)
I guess part of my issue is blind allegiance. I strongly doubt that it is a good thing to ex cell at. Another part of it is the making of generic claims. Sure this country is great at a number of things. For one, I am a huge fan of the U.S. Constitution and the principles and practices of civil rights.
Yes, I love my country. But if it weren’t a land of prosperity and personal freedoms, would I love it as much, or at all?
When we love our country, what are we loving? Critical thinkers want to know.
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Tags: critical thinking, culture, health
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