Difference Between Nationalism And Patriotism

Nationalism and patriotism are two closely related concepts but they have some important differences. Both concepts refer to a shared sense of pride and loyalty to a country or culture, but each has its own distinct nuances. Here are 10 key differences between nationalism and patriotism.

1. Definition

Nationalism is defined as a sentiment of loyalty and devotion to a nation or nation-state, with the desire for national independence. This concept has gained prominence in recent times due to the rise of nationalistic regimes and countries like Nazi Germany, the USSR, and more recently, the United States. Nationalists favor their own nation-state over any other nation and may be willing to use any means to ensure their nation’s superiority.

Patriotism, on the other hand, is typically defined as a feeling of loyalty and devotion to one’s homeland and country. This differentiates it from nationalism, which often extends to everything related to a certain nation-state, such as its economy, language, and culture. Patriotism is generally seen in a more positive light than nationalism, and is often considered to be a more healthy expression of pride for one’s culture or country.

2. Motives

Nationalists are motivated by a desire for their nation-state to be superior to all other nation-states. This desire is often motivated by a feeling of superiority and a need to affirm the superiority of their nation over all others. Nationalists may also be motivated by a desire for economic or political advantage over other nations.

Patriots, on the other hand, are typically motivated by a desire to see their homeland and country succeed. This desire is typically motivated by a feeling of loyalty to their home and country and a hope that it can thrive in a positive and successful manner. Patriots may be motivated by a sense of pride in their homeland, a willingness to contribute to its success, or even a wish to defend it in times of need.

3. Actions

Nationalists may take a range of actions in pursuit of their goals, most notably advocating for nationalist policies in their nation’s government. In extreme cases, nationalists may even resort to violence or other forms of aggression against others they perceive as enemies of their nation-state.

Patriots, on the other hand, often demonstrate their allegiance to their country in more constructive and peaceful ways. Examples of patriotic actions include volunteering for local service projects, engaging in political process, and donating to charitable causes. Patriots may also exercise their rights to freedom of speech and the press to advocate for their country’s needs, both inside their country and abroad.

4. Relationship To Government

Nationalists often seek to influence the government of their nation-state to enact nationalist policies. Nationalists may even accept the superiority of authoritarian governments and ideologies that promote the nation’s interests above those of any other nation-state.

Patriots, on the other hand, are often more likely to be supportive of democratic governments that protect the rights of their citizens. While patriots may also support a particular political ideology, they usually also place a greater emphasis on the importance of democracy and the rights of individuals.

5. Relationship To Other Nations

Nationalists often view other nations and nationalities through the lens of their own nation-state. As such, they may view other nations and nationalities as threats or inferior to their own nation. Nationalists may view immigration and cultural diversity within their own nation as a threat to their nation’s superiority and power.

Patriots, on the other hand, often express a greater degree of openness and acceptance towards other nations and nationalities. Patriots may view other nations and nationalities as potential partners and allies and view immigration and cultural diversity as a positive asset. This is often informed by the belief that all countries and cultures have something unique and valuable to offer.

6. Relationship To Ideologies

Nationalists often view their nation and its ideological positions in terms of black and white, either for or against their nation’s ideology. This can lead to a mentality where criticism of their nation-state is viewed as “unpatriotic.”

Patriots, on the other hand, are often open to criticism of their nation-state or government, viewing it as a necessary part of a country’s growth and success. Patriots may still strongly support their nation-state and its ideology but are not afraid to express concerns and criticisms of their country in a reasonable and constructive manner.

7. Relationship To Other Cultures

Nationalists often view other cultures and their nations with a certain degree of suspicion or aggression. Nationalists may view the presence of other cultures within their own nation-state as a threat and oppose any attempts to integrate them into their own culture.

Patriots, on the other hand, typically have a more accepting and tolerant attitude towards other cultures and nations. Patriots may advocate for a positive and inclusive approach to the integration of other cultures into their own nation, valuing their unique and valuable contributions.

8. Relationship To Differences

Nationalists often view differences as a source of division and superiority, favouring a homogenous national identity. This can lead to a sense of exclusivity and divergent views on how different cultures should be integrated into the nation-state.

Patriots, on the other hand, often view diversity and differences as a source of strength and commonality, valuing and celebrating the unique cultures and people within their nation-state. Patriots may view integration as an opportunity for prosperity and collaboration, rather than as a source of division and conflict.

9. Relationship To The Past

Nationalists often view the past of their nation-state as a source of pride and inspiration. Nationalists may view their nation’s past with romanticised nostalgia, preferring to highlight only the positive achievements while overlooking any aspects of the past that can be viewed as controversial or negative.

Patriots, on the other hand, often view their nation’s past with a more balanced perspective, taking into account both the positive achievements and failings. Patriots may even express regret and sorrow for any negative aspects of their nation’s past while still celebrating the positive

10. Relationship To The Future

Nationalists often view the future of their nation-state as a source of great concern, fearing the possibility of any decline in their nation’s status and power. Nationalists may thus be more likely to support a nationalist agenda in an effort to protect and maintain their nation’s power and security.

Patriots, on the other hand, typically view the future of their nation-state with a sense of optimism and hope. Patriots may be more likely to focus on constructive solutions to any challenges or problems their nation may face, rather than resorting to a nationalist agenda. Patriots may also have a broader view of international cooperation, seeing it as an opportunity to work together in achieving positive outcomes.

In summary, nationalism and patriotism both refer to a shared sense of loyalty and pride in a nation or culture. Nationalism is typically motivated by a desire for the nation-state to be superior to all other nation-states, while patriotism is usually characterized by a sense of loyalty and devotion to one’s homeland and country. Nationalists may also advocate for an authoritarian government, while patriots typically support a democratic government. Finally, nationalists often view differences as sources of division and superiority, while patriots tend to view them as sources of strength and commonality.