American Patriotism: Insights and Dialogue from the Tocqueville Center’s CLP Event

On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Tocqueville Center and On Discourse co-hosted a CLP event titled “American Patriotism. Discuss.” Attendees immediately sensed this would be a unique experience. The event, held in the Hartness Pavilion, featured bar stools for the speakers and round tables with randomly assigned seating to ensure diverse opinions among the audience. It was clear from the start that the audience would play a significant role in this CLP.

The event featured a panel of three professors, each presenting a distinct view of patriotism. Furman historian Marian Strobel began with an 8-minute overview of American exceptionalism—the belief that the United States is uniquely blessed by God to spread freedom worldwide—from John Winthrop to Donald Trump. Wheaton College New Testament scholar and New York Times columnist Esau McCaulley (the Tocqueville speaker) followed with insights from his July 4th column on what patriotism means to a Black man. Finally, Furman political scientist Akan Malici critiqued the concept of patriotism itself, calling it “cheap grace”—protection without sacrifice.

The panel presentations sparked a spirited yet respectful debate among the speakers. Their ability to disagree civilly provided a strong model for the audience.

For much of the 90-minute event, attendees engaged in discussions using a set of prompts at their tables. They began with:

Which of the three perspectives on patriotism outlined by the panelists do you feel best represents your position? Why? Is there a fourth perspective that better reflects your view?

and concluded with:

Is it possible to be patriotic and still protest—such as kneeling, sitting, or turning away from the American flag—during the national anthem?

The discussions were lively, with trained facilitators available to address any issues. At the end of the evening, several tables shared a summary of its discussions. The panelists offered closing remarks, including a final disagreement, before everyone departed feeling that meaningful work had been accomplished.

Addressing challenging topics is never easy. However, committing to respectful dialogue and listening to differing perspectives is a crucial step toward building community across divides.