David Brooks, in his column, "Yes, I'm an American Nationalist" (NYT 10/26/18, A25), declares that his love of country defines him. Though he applauds diversity and rejects "tribe against tribe", in his personal poll-taking he has found that only five percent of people feel most connected to humanity as a whole. Apparently, that justifies his enlightened nationalism.
I submit that Mr. Brooks takes a short-sighted view of nationalism. In reality, nations are but large tribes, however composed, whose self-interest historically and inevitably generated conflict. Yes, love of homeland is important in the present world configuration but, aspirationally, the goal should be one people, undivided and with a common interest in making life better for all.
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