ON ALASDAIR MACINTYRE’S NOTION OF PATRIOTISM

Abstract

Patriotism can be seen as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it can foster a sense of shared values, and collective purpose, but on the other hand, it can lead to nationalist agitations and the suppression of individual rights and freedoms. This study evaluates Macintyre’s concept of patriotism. The study is a qualitative research. Data for the study is sourced from primary and secondary materials. The expository and evaluative methods were employed for this study. The expository method presents MacIntyre’s concept of patriotism while the evaluative method assesses his thoughts, and attempts ascertain its implications on the contemporary society. The study reveals that that the absence of patriotism can lead to a wide range of problems, including social disintegration, cultural erosion, and political instability. Without a sense of shared identity and loyalty, individuals may become disconnected from their community and its values, leading to a decline in social cohesion and civic engagement. This can result in increased conflict, polarization, and fragmentation, as individuals and groups pursue their own self-interests without regard for the common good. Critics however, express the view that Macintyre’s conception on patriotism is overly nostalgic and romantic, as it leads to exclusionary politics. Despite this, MacIntyre’s idea of patriotism remains relevant, particularly in debates about nationalism, immigration, and cultural diversity, and can inform discussions on national identity and morality.