The Patriotic Problem

In this new summer series, the team dives headfirst into a topic that gets more complicated every year—patriotism. What does it actually mean to be patriotic? Has the definition changed? And how do we differentiate between patriotism and nationalism, especially in today’s climate?

In this episode, we explore:

• How patriotism is defined—and redefined—over time
• Whether deep devotion to one’s country is always a good thing
• Why love for your country can look different for different people
• How the word “patriot” has picked up political baggage in recent years
• The difference between healthy pride and harmful superiority

We also reflect on how patriotism looked post-9/11, during political shifts, and in peacetime vs. wartime.

Whether you’re someone who flies the flag proudly or someone who’s cautious about patriotic expressions, this episode gives you a thoughtful place to begin the conversation.

🔔 Subscribe and stay tuned for Part 2, where we talk about patriotism’s relationship to Juneteenth and July 4th.

📬 Got thoughts or questions? Email us at aburdenforthetimes@gmail.com or visit aburdenforthetimes.com

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