"Patriotism is strong nationalistic feeling for a country whose borders and whose legitimacy and whose ethnic composition is taken for granted"

The quote by Michael Ignatieff, "Patriotism is strong nationalistic feeling for a country whose borders and whose legitimacy and whose ethnic composition is taken for granted", looks into the complex interaction in between patriotism and nationalism. Ignatieff recommends that patriotism, typically perceived as a benign and virtuous loyalty to one's country, is deeply linked with more complex concepts of nationalism.

Patriotism describes the psychological attachment people need to their homeland, typically revealed through pride in national culture, history, and worths. Nevertheless, Ignatieff introduces a vital perspective by stressing that this sentiment rests upon specific taken-for-granted assumptions. In his view, the strength of patriotic feeling occurs under the presumption of clear and accepted borders, an undeniable authenticity of the state, and a homogenous or dominant ethnic composition.

This analysis draws attention to the typically overlooked presumptions that underpin patriotic feelings. The idea of stable and uncontested borders is far from universal, as numerous areas experience conflicts and disputes over territorial boundaries. Hence, a simplified view of patriotism might disregard these complex truths. Likewise, the assumption relating to the authenticity of a nation-state can be bothersome, as it neglects historic narratives of colonization, forced annexations, and other practices that have actually shaped existing geopolitical truths.

In addition, the reference of ethnic composition highlights a crucial point: many nationalist motions have historically emerged from the desire to maintain or develop a particular ethnic identity or dominance, often at the expense of multiculturalism. Ignatieff's quote encourages a reconsideration of how national identity is built and maintained, challenging people and societies to critically review the foundations of their patriotic feelings.

In summary, Ignatieff's quote triggers a deeper examination of patriotism by exposing how it may, purposely or unconsciously, depend on contentious and often unique concepts about borders, authenticity, and ethnic identity. It raises awareness about the capacity for patriotism to change into exclusionary nationalism and urges a more nuanced appreciation of national identity.