Regardless of theoretical inconsistencies in the conceptualization of individual attitudes to-ward the nation, empirical research shows that our measurement instruments do not con-vincingly separate between nationalists and patriots. Usually, we define the former as nation members with an arrogant and idealized perception of their national in-group who tend to devalue out-group members. In contrast, it is assumed that patriots will only support their nation as long as the political system refers to democracy as fundamental value. Further-more, it is believed that patriots do not devalue members of out-groups. In view of lots of empirical studies presenting unclear results and unsatisfying statistical coef-ficients, this paper focuses on the unexplained variance of measurement models reflecting the relationship between authoritarianism, nation related attitudes, and xenophobia. A latent class analysis is applied showing that neither the theoretical concepts nor the measurement instruments are as clearly defined as scholars believe. As a consequence it is proposed that, instead of referring to the nation, we should conceptualize people’s attitudes toward the de-mocratic system and separate between those who are convinced of democracy and others preferring an authoritarian system.
