"We teach them to take their patriotism at second-hand; to shout with the largest crowd without examining into the right or wrong of the matter -- exactly as boys under monarchies are taught and have always been taught. We teach them to regard as traitors, and hold in aversion and contempt, such as do not shout with the crowd, and so here in our democracy we are cheering a thing which of all things is most foreign to it and out of place -- the delivery of our political conscience into somebody else's keeping. This is patriotism on the Russian plan."

43 likes

Source: Mark Twain (2012). “Mark Twain at Your Fingertips: A Book of Quotations”, p.349, Courier Corporation

About the author

Mark Twain

Writer, Humorist

Mark Twain was a prominent American writer known for his sharp wit and social critiques, particularly in 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.'

All quotes by Mark Twain →

Same author

More quotes by Mark Twain

See all →
Mark Twain Writer, Humorist

"Life is short, Break the Rules. Forgive quickly, Kiss slowly. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably And never regret ANYTHING That makes you smile."

Read quote