patriottisme

Patriotism is the attachment to and love of one's country, often accompanied by a willingness to support its values, institutions, and people. It can be expressed through civic rituals, symbols, and public service, and is commonly discussed in both political and cultural contexts. In French discourse, the term is patriotisme; occasionally patriottisme appears as a variant, but patri​otisme is the standard spelling.

Patriotism can take different forms. Civic patriotism ties loyalty to shared political principles, the rule of law, and national institutions, while ethnic or cultural patriotism emphasizes language, ancestry, and tradition. Some formulations are inclusive, stressing universal rights and equal belonging, whereas others are more exclusive, defining membership by birth or heritage. The balance between these strands shapes how patriotism is experienced and debated within a society.

Historically, patriotism has functioned as a unifying force in nation-building, democratic movements, and times of conflict. It can mobilize collective action, foster social cohesion, and legitimize civic duties. At the same time, it has been used to justify coercive policies or discrimination when linked to nationalist or supremacist agendas.

In contemporary discourse, patriotism intersects with debates on globalization, immigration, and multiculturalism. Proponents argue that it strengthens civic engagement, national responsibility, and adherence to constitutional norms. Critics warn that excessive or exclusionary patriotism can slip into nationalism or xenophobia, undermining universal rights and social trust.

Patriotism remains a dynamic concept, varying across cultures and political systems. It is often studied through political rhetoric, cultural practices, and measures of civic participation, balancing affection for one’s country with commitments to inclusive belonging and universal human rights.