Parenti, Michael
Superpatriotism
- ISBN 13:
- 9780872864337
- author:
- Parenti, Michael
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- City Lights Books
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2004
- Pages:
- 160
- Dimensions:
- 127 mm X 182 mm
- Genre:
- Nationalism
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 7 working days
Description
Superpatriotism examines how national pride and American supremacy are prioritized above other public considerations. Michael Parenti argues that superpatriotism is often propagated by officialdom, the media, and various groups, and that it can be linked to religion, sports, the military, schools, and big business. Parenti questions whether those who promote superpatriotism are truly patriotic, given their support for policies such as tax evasion, job export, environmental pollution, and public treasury plunder. He also explores how US leaders and the corporate media use fear to justify large arms budgets, global expansion, and the suppression of dissent at home and abroad. Parenti offers an alternative perspective, suggesting that true patriotism involves educating oneself about a country's history and its current issues. He emphasizes that criticizing unjust social conditions or opposing government policies is not only acceptable but also a democratic right and patriotic duty.