Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, “Nationalism is an infantile disease. It is the measles of mankind.” He didn’t originate the quote, but his endorsement is enough.

It’s fine to love your country. But that’s not what nationalism is. Nationalism isn’t just saying your country is among the greats. Nationalism is saying your country is the best. Especially vile examples of nationalism are those that silence people that would bring up significant areas where their nation needs improvement. People who claim that there is no systemic racism in America come to mind. People who claim every American has an equal chance for opportunity come to mind. As an american, I view myself as a patriot. I want my country to be the best. But I’m not a nationalist because I concede that while my nation could be the best, it is far from it, and worse, it is the nationalists who are preventing us from progress because they’re so busy proving that it’s not necessary.