What is the evolutionary explanation for patriotism?

Question

If you look at all individuals in a specie, all of them have a desire to survive. No one would want to end their life on their own - delibrately.

If this is the case then how would you explain patriotism? Because in patriotism we have an individual actually sacrificing his/her life for the survival of other individuals of the species. What happens to the individual's psychology suddenly?

Let us for once assume that "survival of the self" is important. And this we can actually relate in our life: we run away from danger (any form). But the phenomenon of patriotism contradicts our assumption! Why is it important to sacrifice the "self"? How could this possibly do good for the self.

[I believe this questions sounds to be more philosophic than scientific, but however I'd like to receive answers regardless of the perspective]

Answer 1

You are wrong when you say that no species in nature will sacrifice it's life for another.

Wasps and bees do so for thier colony, ants do.
Mothers of cubs will fight to the death to save thier young.

Patriotism is probably alike. But patriotism should never be used to put another country down.

Here is some information on patriotism...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriotism

Sabre

Answer 2

Good question, you might also ask yourself why most animals will protect their young to the death. Self sacrifice can be viewed as the ultimate gift one can give to their belief. If you can accept that in some cultures the people are " brainwashed" from birth to give their ALL to their religious belief. By your choice of the word patriotism I assume that you are referring to dedication to our social beliefs?

Answer 3

Excellent answer, Don. You need to show up in the biology section, as we are always short of evolutionary biologists.

Answer 4

I think the answer would be wanting better for our children and their children to come is what makes us want to be patriotic. My children are more important to me then I am. There's your answer.