Brava, Cynthia. One of the freedoms the U.S. flag represents is the freedom to “desecrate” the U.S. flag. The flag is a symbol, nothing more, and to imagine that an action against the flag is an action against the U.S. is to confuse the map with the territory; it’s idolatry-as-patriotism.
I know the opposite viewpoint exists, but I don’t find it convincing or even very interesting.
Imagine “How the Grinch Stole Independence Day.” He sneaks from his mountain on the night of July 3rd down into Whoville, U.S.A. and steals all their flags. When the Whos get up on the morning of the 4th, they see a big bonfire, as the Grinch sets every flag to the match. Unperturbed, the Whos join hands around the empty flag pole and sing “America the Beautiful.”
Apart from violating the pollution laws, has the Grinch actually accomplished anything? The flag is a piece of cloth, with a specific pattern of colors. If I steal your flag and burn it, OK, I’m destroying your private property. But if I bought or made my own flag, what standing does anyone have to claim they’ve been wronged? It’s not even currency, which is technically the property of the U.S. Government…
ottod Premium Member about 14 years ago
Yes! You’re all right Barney!
Limb_Ashhauler about 14 years ago
freelance! good one!
Ushindi about 14 years ago
Ah…Lucretia is ALSO a hateful person. There are certainly a lot of those around.
fritzoid Premium Member about 14 years ago
Brava, Cynthia. One of the freedoms the U.S. flag represents is the freedom to “desecrate” the U.S. flag. The flag is a symbol, nothing more, and to imagine that an action against the flag is an action against the U.S. is to confuse the map with the territory; it’s idolatry-as-patriotism.
fritzoid Premium Member about 14 years ago
I know the opposite viewpoint exists, but I don’t find it convincing or even very interesting.
Imagine “How the Grinch Stole Independence Day.” He sneaks from his mountain on the night of July 3rd down into Whoville, U.S.A. and steals all their flags. When the Whos get up on the morning of the 4th, they see a big bonfire, as the Grinch sets every flag to the match. Unperturbed, the Whos join hands around the empty flag pole and sing “America the Beautiful.”
Apart from violating the pollution laws, has the Grinch actually accomplished anything? The flag is a piece of cloth, with a specific pattern of colors. If I steal your flag and burn it, OK, I’m destroying your private property. But if I bought or made my own flag, what standing does anyone have to claim they’ve been wronged? It’s not even currency, which is technically the property of the U.S. Government…