“Patriotism is usually stronger than class hatred, and always stronger than internationalism.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
- Through his representative works “1984” and “Animal Farm,” he presented sharp criticism of totalitarianism and the abuse of power, greatly influencing contemporary literature and thought.
Quote
“Patriotism is usually stronger than class hatred, and always stronger than internationalism.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell reflects on the powerful influence of patriotism in shaping human behavior and political allegiance. He argues that patriotism, or loyalty to one’s country, often trumps even the hatred of class or the ideal of internationalism—the belief in global cooperation and solidarity. Orwell’s observation suggests that people’s attachment to their nation-state and national identity tends to override their sense of solidarity with the global working class or the desire for international unity. This is particularly true when national interests or patriotism are at stake, revealing the complexity of human loyalties and the tendency for nationalism to overshadow other forms of collective identity.
Orwell’s own political experiences, particularly his involvement in the Spanish Civil War, deeply informed his understanding of these dynamics. During the war, he witnessed how patriotism could unite people to fight for national causes, while class divisions and international solidarity often took a back seat. Despite being a socialist and a critic of nationalism, Orwell recognized that when people feel deeply about their country’s identity or survival, they will often prioritize this loyalty over class struggle or global cooperation. In works like Homage to Catalonia, he critiques the conflicts within left-wing factions and the challenges of maintaining international solidarity when national allegiances are so deeply ingrained.
In contemporary society, this quote remains relevant as we see nationalism rise in various parts of the world, often at odds with movements advocating for global cooperation, class solidarity, or internationalism. Whether in debates over immigration, trade policies, or climate change, nationalism often trumps global or class-based solutions. Orwell’s words serve as a reminder of how deeply ingrained national identity can be, and how difficult it can be to unite people across borders when patriotism is often stronger than both class hatred and internationalist ideals.
