Actually Brent... I agree to some extent.
However, you don't need to have pride in something to want to make a difference or put any effort into it. For example, I have no pride in my sexuality, I don't care about it. It is what it is, but that isn't to say I would turn a blind eye or agree with someone who speaks negatively about said sexual orientation. 'cus I would disagree with them, and I would argue against them. I have no desire nor need to express my sexuality, culture or appearence anymore so than I do already by just living.
So I know I do not need to have pride in something to care about it.
This is because pride often leads to lables, stereotypes and prejudice.
People can become so engrossed in national pride and become 'blind with patriotism' as they say.
But, I guess it depends on the nature of the pride. It's one thing to say "I am proud to be {insert any old country or nation here}." and another to stand and say "I am proud of the efforts I and the people of my nation have put into it." or even "I am proud of what the people of my nation have achieved for us."
So, I feel I should retract my earlier statement of "I disagree with national pride." and just stick with me old "Someone shouldn't take pride in themselves for something they haven't done or achieved."
And also, although it's obvious someone should not use pride as a reason to belittle or demonize other individuals or groups. It's obviously possible to have pride in something without thinking less of or feeling superiority over something else.
I feel I took a too narrow perspective on what national pride could mean. Sorry about that.