Patriotism - Charles Jones

From flag-waving to the singing of national anthems, the practices and symbolsofpatriotism are inescapable, and modern politics is increasingly full of appealstopatriotic fervour. But if no-one chooses where they were born, and ourethicalobligations transcend national boundaries, then does patriotism make any sense?Doesit encourage an uncritical attachment to the status quo, or is it a crucial wayofunderstanding and applying our freedoms and moralduties?

In this engaging book, Charles Jones and Richard Vernon guide us throughthesequestions with razor-sharp clarity. They examine the different ways patriotism hasbeendefended and explained, from a republican attachment to free anddemocraticinstitutions to an ethical and historical fabric that makes our entire moral lifeandidentity possible. They outline its relationship to a range of other key concepts, suchasnationalism and cosmopolitanism, and skilfully analyse the issuessurroundingpartiality to country and whether we should prioritise the welfare of ourcompatriotsoveroutsiders.

This concise and lucid volume will be essential for both students and generalreaderswishing to understand the contemporary resonance and historical developmentofpatriotism, and how it intersects with debates about global justice,cosmopolitanismandnationalism.