The NYT's Take on Olympics Nationalism vs. Patriotism Misses the Mark

The article argues patriotism is good, nationalism is bad, but overlooks the need for international working class solidarity

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A recent New York Times article by David Litt discusses the difference between nationalism and patriotism at the Olympics, arguing that patriotism (supporting one's own country) is good, while nationalism (being against other countries) is bad. However, the article fails to address the importance of international working class solidarity, which the author argues is the only true way to counter the oppression of ruling classes across nations.

Why it matters

The article's perspective, while seemingly harmless, actually deflects from the need for workers across the world to unite against their common oppressors - the ruling classes that wage unjust wars and promote nationalist/patriotic propaganda to maintain power. The author contends that true progress comes not from blind patriotism, but from international solidarity among the working class.

The details

The article criticizes Litt's view for perfectly aligning with the warmongering policies of former President Obama, who launched military actions in multiple countries. The author argues Litt's perspective does nothing to challenge the 'big lie' used to justify the 'war on terror' and the resulting violence against civilians. In contrast, the author highlights examples of international working class solidarity, such as Greek dockworkers blocking arms shipments to Israel and Norwegian unions supporting Swedish workers, as the true path forward.

  • The NYT article was published on February 22, 2026.

The players

David Litt

A former speechwriter for President Obama who wrote the NYT article on nationalism and patriotism at the Olympics.

Barack Obama

The former U.S. president who waged military actions in multiple countries during his administration, which the author argues was enabled by the type of nationalist/patriotic propaganda Litt's article promotes.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president who invoked a 'dual loyalty' trope, accusing Jewish people who vote for Democrats of 'hating' Israel, as an example of how nationalist/patriotic rhetoric can be used against minority groups.

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What they’re saying

“America is not just an idea. We're a particular place with a particular people and a particular set of beliefs and way of life.”

— J.D. Vance (Claremont Institute)

The takeaway

Rather than focusing on the false dichotomy of 'nationalism vs. patriotism,' the author argues the real solution lies in fostering international working class solidarity to counter the oppressive policies of ruling elites across national borders. This egalitarian approach, not blind patriotism, is the key to progress and justice.