What do we talk about when we talk about polarization? One of the underlying aspects in that conversation is a divergence in views about what America is. Using a couple (very short!) readings as a starting point, we will discuss what it means that, for example, “multiculturalism” and “patriotism” have become dirty words for different parts of American society. If you would like to come discuss these and related issues in a non-ideological space, email Jacob Addelson (jacoba@stanford.edu) for the (very short!) readings.