Patriotism is Progressive

DISCUSS TRUE PATRIOTISM

Read The True Patriot with your book group — or form one! Then use this study guide to discuss the ideas in it.

For book clubs, reading circles, discussion groups, and anyone who would like to explore the ideas that The True Patriot stirs in us.

About the Book

The True Patriot challenges every American's definition of patriotism and reminds us of the core values that formed this nation: freedom of expression and worship, responsible stewardship, human equality, shared sacrifice and service, and country above self. But many who live by these principles wouldn't think to identify themselves as patriots. The idea of patriotism has been co-opted by conservatives as a chest-thumping means to justify selfishness and aggression and to condemn the very diversity and discourse that make America exceptional. As the right has redefined patriotism, so the progressive left has shied from it. A pamphlet in the style of Thomas Paine, The True Patriot reframes the concept of patriotism and returns politics to what it once was: a civic virtue and responsibility that fueled America's founders. The words of the founders, in fact, can be found in the pages of The True Patriot. Authors Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer go to the source of the nation's ideals to demonstrate that true patriotism is based on a progressive moral code.

Discussion questions

  1. How do you personally define patriotism?

  2. How do you think most Americans define patriotism?

  3. Do you believe that the idea of patriotism has changed over time? How?

  4. What do you feel when you see the American flag or hear "The Star Spangled Banner"?

  5. Are morality and patriotism connected? How?

  6. Are most Americans' political views based upon a moral code?

  7. Are the policies of this nation's government based on a set of moral values?

  8. What does "American freedom" grant its citizens liberty to do?

  9. Does your idea of freedom come with any responsibilities?

  10. What's the difference between "the common good" and patriotism, if any?

  11. What do you think Liu and Hanauer meant when they wrote that America was "founded to give people a second chance"? (Page 31)

  12. What about this nation makes you proud?

  13. Is change still an essential element of this nation?

  14. Is political dissent compatible with patriotism?

  15. Is American patriotism progressive?

  16. Has reading this book had any impact on your idea of patriotism?

  17. Can you think of an example of a true American patriot? Is it someone you would have described as a patriot before reading this book?

Tell us your story of true patriotism

Do you know someone who embodies the principles of true American patriotism?  Tell us!

Quick Poll

Social

Technology and Politics
Have recent developments in communication technology (such as social networking software) helped to improve the quality of politics in America?
Yes. Citizens are better informed.
Yes. People feel more engaged and involved.
No. People have access to better information but few make use of it.
No. Misinformation and useless information simply travel faster now.

Upcoming Events

  • Mar 11, Seattle: Center for Ethical Leadership Presents Leadership Legacy Award to Eric Liu

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Praise for The True Patriot

"Nick Hanauer and Eric Liu are true patriots and certifiable American heroes for clearly articulating the nexus between our country's most cherished first principles and core progressive values. Rich with historic references and respectful of beliefs across a broad spectrum of American progressive and conservative political thought, this book provides an invaluable point of departure for a long overdue and robust national conversation about how we re-connect to America's core values, re-define our role in the world of the twenty-first century, and re-dedicate our national purpose to justice, prosperity and security for all at home and abroad."
ROB STEIN, founder of The Democracy Alliance
 

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