"The citizen who criticizes his country is paying it an implied tribute"

This quote by J. William Fulbright recommends that when a person slams their nation, they are really paying it a type of homage. This suggests that the person is engaging in a kind of useful criticism, which is helpful to the country. By slamming their country, the person is showing that they care enough to point out its flaws and suggest methods to improve. This suggests regard and admiration for the country, as the resident is taking the time to consider how to make it better. The citizen is also showing that they believe their country's ability to enhance, as they are suggesting methods to do so. In this way, the citizen is paying their country an indicated tribute.