The founding principles of the United States--freedom of speech and conscience, individual rights, and democratic dissent--often sit in opposition to the patriotic ideals of public spirit and self-sacrifice. But American history reveals scores of citizens who have put the good of the nation above their own self-interest, whether at home or abroad. It is this paradox that Walter Berns tackles with this magnificently argued book: What makes patriots? And is it still possible to make them?