Patriotism ???

The word "Patriotism" is linked to country, one should be loyal to and should love his country.

I do not understand why it should be country only? why not the state, I belong to? or the city? or the lane? Why should be its always country? It could have been included a greater region say Continent or why not whole Earth? But its always country. We say don't distinguish on basis of language, colour, religion and regions or states, but there seems no harm when fighting for country. I ask, why? Is that their blood not red? or they don't inhale oxygen and exhale CO₂?

"Its good to love one's country but I do not understand why that love stops at the borders." -- Unknown Great

--
Peter