How to Be a Patriot

Name: How to Be a Patriot
Brand: Harper UK
Availability: InStock
Author: Sunder Katwala
ISBN: 9780008553883

Author: Sunder Katwala

Narrator: Sunder Katwala

Unabridged: 7 hr 17 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: HarperNorth

Published: 06/15/2023

Categories: Nonfiction, Social Science, Discrimination, Political Science, Commentary & Opinion, Political Ideologies, Public Policy

Synopsis

How do we define patriotism in a diverse society? What divides us and what brings us together? Why do we feel uncomfortable celebrating our country’s history? How to be a Patriot Sunder Katwala himself grew up with some questions to work through. As a half-Indian, Irish Catholic child of the NHS, the chequered history of post-imperial Britain seemed very personal to him, but he realised that with that background he could hardly be anything but British, and proud of it too. His timely and clear-eyed analysis seeks to navigate the many crises of this increasingly disunited kingdom: extremism and integration after 7/7; fear of immigration and the deep divides of Brexit; the resurgence of online racism; and the debate over our cultural heritage. Equipped with a nuanced understanding of the subject and a wealth of supporting data, he sets out to foster a more open and tolerant society: one that welcomes alternative ideas and cultures rather than shutting them out. Ultimately, is a rousing story of lives lived together and shared values. Far from being divisive, it concludes, an inclusive and confident patriotism is a reminder that our differences need not define us.

Reviews

Goodreads review by YW

An illuminating read on British identity and minority history. It makes an excellent case for inclusive patriotism, respectful disagreements and optimism. It advocates for these causes through a compelling national and personal narrative. As someone new to British history, I found the book to be ver......more

Goodreads review by Jonny

Thorough, with lots of memoir from a man who (can you guess by the name) is of Irish-Indian descent. Plenty of think-tankery, as to be expected from the head of British Future, but a useful way in to a difficult debate. Monarchy, race and Empire all feature.......more

Goodreads review by Mark

This book fits very well with the future of Brian that I share with the the author. Sunder is able to mold together our traditions and our diverse selves together to make a sort of patriotisms that we can all share and feel proud of.......more

Quotes

‘Excellent. Katwala is an elegant and exuberant writer. This lovely book is both polemic and user’s manual.’ ‘Eloquent and engaging.’ ‘A really great read about how we can have an open and inclusive patriotism.’ ‘Really, really thought-provoking and nuanced. I suggest that anyone with an interest in the future of this country should read it.’ ‘Well-written, thought-provoking and insightful in its analysis, is essential reading.’ ‘This important book is predominantly about searching for common ground.’ ‘Fantastic. I’ve been waiting for a Sunder Katwala book.’ 'Calm, sensible, and challenging. Sunder shows that a more united, more tolerant Britain is possible, but that it it needs to be created.' ‘Ever my go-to guy when trying to make sense of this ferociously polarised issue.’ ‘Sunder Katwala has helped to lead the public conversation on national identity.' ‘There are few better judges of the state of the national debate. Landmark.’ ‘Wide ranging, wise and humane. Fizzing with energy, ideas and passion.’ , author of ‘Deeply persuasive. … Katwala deals with reality rather than caricatures.’ ‘Compelling and passionate. Truly insightful.’ , author of ‘Excellent, thought-provoking and wise.’ author of