Patriotism vs. Nationalism

Merriam Webster defines these as:

Patriotism:
Function: noun: love for or devotion to one's country

Nationalism:
Function: noun: loyalty and devotion to a nation; especially: a sense of national consciousness exalting one nation above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests as opposed to those of other nations or supranational groups.

Ignorance of the essential difference between these two attributes has apparently allowed many to slip across the divide unaware of their own narrow-mindedness. A couple of the fundamental things about America that inspire patriotism are it's dedication to and promotion of freedom and tolerance. While nationalism is a violation of these very prinicples, patriotism embodies and upholds them.

:~)