PHOTO: The Author
By Austin S Fallah -A True Son of the Planet Soil
In the nuanced landscape of politics, where the aspirations of a nation and the rhetoric of its leaders often interweave, the words of influential organizational psychologist Adam Grant resonate with profound relevance.
In a thought-provoking post, Grant eloquently distinguishes between two sentiments that lie at the core of national consciousness, positive patriotism, and negative nationalism.
To paraphrase Grant’s wisdom, “Positive patriotism manifests as a wholesome pride in one’s country, whereas negative nationalism is characterized by a disdainful view of other nations. Genuine in-group solidarity necessitates no prejudice towards out-groups. It is entirely possible to harbor love for one’s people without fostering hatred towards others.”
This philosophical distinction is especially pertinent to the political climate in Liberia, a nation that has faced its share of trials and triumphs.
Liberian politicians, particularly those in the opposition, must heed this call and embody what Mr. Adam Grant has articulated.
The aim should be to adopt a posture of positive nationalism, a sentiment profoundly rooted in patriotism, characterized by an unwavering commitment to the betterment of the country without succumbing to the divisive tactics that tarnish its image on the global stage.
Politicians, regardless of their stance on the political spectrum, must eschew behaviors that corrode the very fabric of the nation.
Corruption, in its many insidious forms, must be expunged not only from public offices but from the political dialogue itself.
Engaging in corrupt acts is antithetical to the concept of positive patriotism, and it is an incontestable betrayal of the trust and hope the Liberian people invest in their leaders.
Positive patriotism entails fostering a transparent, accountable governmental framework that serves the people rather than the self-serving machinations of those in power.
Moreover, in their justifiable quest to hold the government accountable, members of the opposition must refrain from weaponizing falsehoods and unsubstantiated claims.
To speak the truth to power is a vital democratic principle, but this truth must be grounded in fact(s), not fabricated to suit narrow political agenda(s).
Spewing lies and misinformation not only undermines the credibility of the political discourse but also sows seeds of discord among Liberian citizens.
As Mr. Grant implies it is possible to be critical, to offer constructive opposition, without descending into a mire of hostility and deceit.
Voicing concerns and criticisms should never devolve into campaigns that breed hatred, division, or malice.
Such negative tactics distort patriotism into a destructive nationalism that looks down on others, including fellow countrymen, to elevate a partisan cause or, worse, personal aggrandizement.
The duty of an opposition is not merely to critique but to propose viable alternatives.
It is to stand as a testament to the possibility of improvement, the hope for change, and the promise of a better Liberia for all.
When accused of or faced with allegations of corrupt actions, both opposition members and current government officials need to respond with integrity and a commitment to jurisprudence and due process.
They must adhere to the highest ethical standards and work to clear their names through legal and transparent means rather than resorting to obfuscation, retaliation, or empty rhetoric (for nothing talk) that does not hold any iota of truth.
Even when accusations are politicized, the response from those under scrutiny should reflect a patriot’s respect for the rule of law and democratic values.
This call for a new political paradigm in Liberia is more than a theoretical treatise; it is an urgent practical necessity.
For a nation recovering from the wounds of its past, the tone and content of political engagement can either be a salve that facilitates healing or a caustic substance that exacerbates lingering sores.
Liberian politicians have an opportunity and an obligation to model the former.
They can look to the resilience and fortitude of their people as the guiding light for their conduct.
Indeed, Adam Grant’s words should not be taken lightly nor seen as belonging solely to the sphere of scholarly thought.
They are a clarion call for the transformation of political practice, a beacon illuminating the path toward a Liberia where those elected to serve commit to doing so with honor and a profound love for their country.
It is time for Liberian politicians to transcend the petty confines of negative nationalism and rise to the more elevated heights of positive patriotism.
As Liberia continues on its journey of self-discovery and nation-building, the politicians who guide its course must recognize the profundity and simplicity of Adam Grant’s differentiation.
Positive patriotism is the elixir that Liberia needs to emerge stronger and more unified from its complex history.
It is an invitation to join hearts and hands, regardless of political leanings, for the common good, to echo with united voices. the love of a country that transcends boundaries and differences.
The future of Liberia rests in the balance of this ideological shift.
It is an opportunity for a fresh narrative of leadership and citizenship, one where the lofty ideals of integrity, transparency, and unity form the cornerstone of governance.
The mantle of positive patriotism awaits those who dare to put their nation first, leading Liberia on a path of progress and prosperity, marked not by the blight of corruption or the shadows of division but by the glow of hope and the solidarity of shared purpose.
Liberian politicians, now more than ever, must heed the call to be stalwarts of positive patriotism.