Patriotism should be avoided in school lessons because British history is “morally ambiguous”, a leading educational body recommends.

History and citizenship lessons should stick to the bare facts rather than encouraging loyalty to Britain when covering subjects such as the Second World War or the British Empire, the Institute of Education researchers said. Teachers should not instil pride in what they consider great moments of British history, as more shameful episodes could be downplayed or excluded.

The Times Online , February 1st 2008

Patriotism is not a study subject to be taught. It is a natural, spontaneously-arising feeling of loyalty, fidelity, a sense of gratitude for kindness received, for one’s family having been helped to survive in a world becoming progressively more deprived of the ability to entertain decent, positive feelings, and therefore insatiably ever more demanding, greedy for attention, selfish. The basis of all altruism is concern beyond oneself. When this is a foundation for life, all kinds of noble qualities flower. If children are discouraged from soul growth, they will become stunted, spiritually ugly, untrustworthy, manipulative, self-seeking. Patriotism arises during contemplative activity, when the person considers their blessings. It is a gift of return to those kind souls who eased our passage in this world, from honourable motives. If we make no return for what we receive, we are unworthy to receive anything further. A person without gratitude in their lives, is untrustworthy.

L. Kobiernicki, Hampshire