After reading the article "Germany's Patriotism Problem: Just Don't Fly the Flag", I am a bit skeptical of the severity of the "problem". In my opinion, it is not a problem that the Germans are not openly over-the-top about their love for their country. There are people that are proud to be German--many of them. They merely do not believe that their country is superior to other civilized countries that they are comparable to. After living in the United States for most of my life, I notice that many people here are almost threateningly patriot. One may receive dirty looks if one does not put their hand over their heart during the national anthem, etc. or be called "unamerican" for not appreciating an aspect of American culture. Here in America, you see these old pick-up trucks with huge tires, drivers with long hair and beards supporting the Second Amendment, with a big ol' American Flag in the back window. Would it be "unamerican" to criticize such people?
These are, perhaps, two extremes of the "Patriotism Problem". A middle ground would be safe--silent pride and positive feelings for one's nation. I feel like in both countries and cultures, such a middle ground does exist. Pride is not taboo in Germany.
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