The article examines the complex interplay between democracy and nationalism from a socio-philosophical perspective. The author traces the evolution of views on this relationship – from classical liberal thinkers (J. S. Mill, J. J. Rousseau) to contemporary philosophers and political scientists (F. Fukuyama, G. Nodia, B. Yack). The study reveals the dialectical nature of these phenomena: while nationalism can foster civic identity and social solidarity, it may also provoke conflicts. The author emphasizes that despite their contradictions, nationalism and democracy remain fundamentally interconnected and can serve as foundations for developing civic identity and social cohesion.