JOHNSON. "Sir, I do not say that he is not honest; but we have no reason to conclude from his political conduct that he is honest. . . ."

In this statement, Samuel Johnson critiques the superficial veneer of patriotism often adopted by individuals for personal gain rather than genuine nationalistic fervor. The phrase "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel" is a sharp denunciation of those who exploit patriotic sentiments to disguise their self-serving motives. Boswell, who records the conversation, clarifies that Johnson's criticism is not of true patriotism—an authentic love for one's country—but of the feigned variety that serves as a mask for ulterior interests. When challenged to name a genuinely patriotic figure, Boswell suggests an admired individual, to which Johnson responds with skepticism. He implies that political conduct alone is insufficient proof of integrity, inviting a more critical examination of people's actions and intentions. Johnson's remarks encourage discernment in assessing public figures, urging us to look beyond grandiose declarations of patriotism and evaluate the underlying intentions behind political actions.