Tuesday, January 25, 2005

Patriotism: Rationality's Worst Enemy

Many parents try to discourage violence by shielding their children from violent video games and movies. However, they indoctrinate their children with patriotism, which is far more likely to lead to violent behavior; it motivates young men to enthusiastically kill other young men they would befriend under different circumstances. At best, patriotism provokes blind support for politicians who start wars. At worst, it encourages participation in organized killing. If parents want to raise children who respect human life, they should teach them to think critically and form their own opinions.

No comments: