"No matter that patriotism is too often the refuge of scoundrels. Dissent, rebellion, and all-around hell-raising remain the true duty of patriots"

Barbara Ehrenreich challenges the conventional notion of patriotism by suggesting that blind loyalty to one’s nation can often serve as a convenient shield for those with questionable motives. When she states that “patriotism is too often the refuge of scoundrels,” she exposes how appeals to national pride are sometimes used by individuals seeking to protect their own power or wrongdoing, cloaking self-interest or unethical actions in the language of national loyalty. Such patriotism may become less about genuine love for one’s country and more about suppressing criticism and demanding conformity, creating an environment where questioning authority is seen as betrayal.

Yet, Ehrenreich does not reject the concept of patriotism itself. Instead, she radically redefines it. She argues that the true obligation of someone who genuinely loves their country is not unthinking allegiance but rather the courage to challenge, protest, and raise critical questions. Acts of dissent and rebellion are not acts of disloyalty; they are expressions of deep commitment. This perspective sees patriotism as an active, not passive, relationship with one’s country, one that requires vigilance, moral bravery, and a willingness to confront injustice, even (or especially) when it originates from within.

Hell-raising, rebellion, and dissent historically have driven social and political progress, exposing corruption, demanding rights, and repairing the gaps between a nation’s ideals and its realities. By framing these actions as the “true duty of patriots,” Ehrenreich invites citizens to engage thoughtfully and courageously with their country, advocating for positive change rather than accepting the status quo. Ultimately, she reminds us that loyalty to national principles must be rooted in the pursuit of justice and truth, not merely in obedience to authority or tradition. True patriots, therefore, are those who care enough about their country to hold it accountable and strive for its betterment.