Parenti, Superpatriot Critical Analysis

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Critical Analysis 3, Michael Parenti-Author “What Does It Mean to Love one’s Country?” In his inventively descriptive autobiographical essay, Michael Parenti awakens the intended reader’s mind by defending his views on foreign policy by deeming his critics; “Superpatriots,” and defining this type of person. Initially imposing his admission of criticizing aspects of U.S., he illustrates an angry, yet proud American native, who calls into a radio show of which he is a guest; posing the question; “Don’t you love your country?” Parenti poses the idea, somewhat extreme in today’s society, he poses questions like; does a person have to realistically love and agree with every idea in Americas metaphorical rulebook to demonstrate pride---while the liberal thinker automatically agrees with his theory, so many flag toting, military following, people; whose views are unusually swayed will admittedly argue and refute Parenti’s statement. The main assertion portrayed in this essay is the fact that the U.S. is not the greatest country on the planet and anyone who believes that it is should serve up factual evidence to compare America to other Continents and Countries. It is also stated that a person who is a superpatriot tends to side with leaders and cheer for any military action, however unnecessary it may seem. Parenti implies that superpatriotism is a mental disorder, in that those who have this persona tend to evoke the same emotion and discourage any change or protest against war or presidential leaders. He continues to reveal the true persona of this type of society, their ideas, and demonstrates how superpatriotism attaches itself to religion, sports, the military, the schools and big business. Another evocative question resides in whether its top politico-economic propagators are themselves really patriotic, given how they evade taxes, export our jobs, pollute

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