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What is the difference between blind and constructive patriotism?

• Blind patriotism: Uncritical loyalty, intolerance of criticism

• Constructive patriotism: Supportive but allows questioning to improve the country

What is messianism in politics?

A belief that one’s nation has a sacred mission to suffer and redeem others; the nation is seen as a heroic victim and moral leader.

What beliefs characterize political messianism?

• National suffering has meaning

• Nation is morally superior and chosen

• Nation is a victim, never aggressor

• Sacrifice is part of national identity

What correlates with messianism?

Nationalism, patriotism, authoritarianism, collective narcissism, and perceived threats (e.g., terrorism)

How is religiosity linked to nationalism and patriotism?

• Religious people tend to show higher national pride

• Religiosity = both a belief system and social identity marker

When is religiosity more strongly related to nationalism?

• In highly religious countries

• Among members of the dominant faith

What does Voicu’s and Wright & Reeskens’ research show?

Religiosity correlates with nationalism and patriotism more in religious countries than in secular ones.

Is spirituality studied in relation to PNM?

Hardly any research exists, but theory suggests spirituality could support PNM due to its focus on meaning, belonging, and purpose.

What defines left- and right-wing views in this model?

• Economic dimension:

  • Left: Redistribution, social equality

  • Right: Capitalism, individual responsibility

• Identity/moral dimension:

  • Left: Secular, individual autonomy

  • Right: Traditional, religious, national identity

What is the relationship between religiosity and political orientation?

Religiosity is positively linked to conservatism and right-wing voting across multiple countries.

What is the link between spirituality and political orientation?

Mixed results:

• Some studies show a link to liberalism and green/ecological views

• Others show a negative or no correlation to liberalism

• Often associated with voting for green parties, not traditional left/right

Does religiosity influence voting?

Yes — strongly linked to voting for right-wing parties and candidates, especially in Poland.

Does spirituality influence voting?

• Weak or no link to traditional left/right voting

• Positively linked to voting for green parties

• No strong link to general electoral participation

What does this say about political identity?

Religious identification is a strong predictor of right-wing voting, while atheism/agnosticism predicts left-wing or liberal preferences.

How does religiosity relate to support for the EU and other countries?

• Religiosity = less support for EU values (seen as a threat to national identity)

• Spirituality = more open support for outside groups and views