The Meaning of "True Patriot"

Though I could go on and on about the definition of a true patriot, I will instead cite the words of Ron Paul, who is fast becoming the candidate of the disenchanted American, because he is willing to speak up against the system as it is now. Many members of the GOP have threatened to remove him from future debates, simply because he will not conform to the right-wing party line.

"The original American patriots were those individuals brave enough to resist with force the oppressive power of King George. I accept the definition of patriotism as that effort to resist oppressive state power. The true patriot is motivated by a sense of responsibility, and out of self interest -- for himself, his family, and the future of his country -- to resist government abuse of power. He rejects the notion that patriotism means obedience to the state."

And he goes on to say...

"But whether the resistance against government tyrants is non-violent or physically violent, the effort to overthrow state oppression qualifies as true patriotism."

The rest of the speech can be found here...



It is quite ironic that our current, pseudo-king also happens to have the given name of George.