The article examines various types of modern nationalism as a phenomenon of political life. It is shown that it can manifest itself in the form of separatism, irredentism, protective reaction to immigration, etc. It is noted that nationalism is often associated with painful reflection and an inferiority complex. The political practice of nationalism inevitably involves discrimination against ethnic minorities and can lead to acute conflicts up to civil wars. The question of the degree of compatibility of nationalism with respect for fundamental democratic principles and human rights remains debatable.