As a United Statesian, I might question the practicality in the foreseeable future. I would certainly point out that a belief in mankind and its freedom is the

As a United Statesian, I might question the practicality in the foreseeable future. I would certainly point out that a belief in mankind and its freedom is the sort of thing that can be invoked for a decision to invade Iraq, or to imagine that a US-style constitution is now practical for Afghanistan. There is this to be said for patriotism, that a more particular commitment has a better chance of realizing itself in action rather than sentiment. Obviously, one should not use it to excuse bad actions. G.K. Chesterton's remark that "My country right or wrong" is equivalent to "My mother, drunk or sober" certainly applies.