Patriotism?

So, we seem to have gotten to the point in class of understanding that Patriotism (and it's more dangerous cousin, Nationalism) have some really serious potential for getting very out of control very quickly. The problem is that both of them are rooted in the ethnocentric notion of "We're better than everyone else", which leads to a problem of never really being able to fully cooperate with other nations because all nations seem to think that they are the best. Just mix in some animosity and you too can have the diplomatic fiasco of your choice.

However, there is also the question of what positive uses can Patriotism have?
One could view patriotism as not only a love for one's country, but also a desire to improve said country, as well as make sure it does not get any worse.
It would be one of the better things an individual could do for their country.
Maybe there are other positive uses for Patriotism?