Debate: Patriotism can be coercive

Patriotism is often celebrated as a unifying force, stitched into the fabric of flags and national rituals. But is it always voluntary, or does it quietly pressure us into conformity?

When the flag is raised, are we freely expressing loyalty — or subtly coerced into silence, obedience, and belonging on someone else’s terms?

In this debate, we’ll test whether patriotism, symbolised by the flag, is a healthy source of identity and pride, or whether it operates as a form of soft coercion — shaping what we dare to say, how we act, and who is considered “truly” part of the nation.