Question

The American flag is a cherished symbol of our national aspirations. It is the closest object to a national icon, rivaled only by the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Given the widespread and deeply felt reverence for this symbol of what we perceive to be the best of our civilization, what is the harm in insisting upon a modicum of respect for it. After all, no one can seriously equate a prohibition on flag burning with the imposition of governmental orthodoxy in political speech. Any message that burning the flag might convey easily can be communicated in other ways. Paraphrase this section making sure to replace the four bolded words with more common words.

What is the harm in insisting upon a modicum of respect for the American flag?
a) Encouraging disrespect
b) Promoting nationalism
c) Advocating freedom of expression
d) Fostering government orthodoxy

Answer 1

Insisting on a basic level of respect for the American flag can be seen as fostering government orthodoxy, which may impose restrictions on the freedom of speech protected by the First Amendment. Flag desecration, including burning, is protected as symbolic speech, highlighting the importance of allowing varied forms of expression within the U.S.

Step-by-step explanation:

The query you've presented asks about the repercussions of insisting on a basic level of respect for the American flag. When considering the options provided, the question seems to be aiming at understanding why mandating respect for the flag may not align with principles of freedom of expression. The harm in mandating a respect for the flag could be interpreted as fostering government orthodoxy. By dictating how one should respect national symbols like the flag, it could lead to the imposition of a government-prescribed way of expressing patriotism, which contradicts the values of free speech and thought protected by the First Amendment.

As established in the landmark Supreme Court decision in Texas v. Johnson, the act of flag desecration, including flag burning, is protected under the First Amendment as a form of symbolic speech. This underscores the importance of protecting even those forms of expression that might profoundly offend others.

Mandating a show of respect for the flag goes counter to the fundamentally protected right to express one's viewpoints, even if they are unpopular or controversial. The very essence of freedom of expression is the ability to convey messages without the fear of government retribution, regardless of how others might perceive those messages.