A key point Allen makes involves a comparison with the treatment of Chinese protesters by their government. What are the differences in the two situations, and where would they overlap if the Supreme Court had ruled that flag burning could

Allen presents an opposing view involving respect for the flag at the beginning of the editorial. How does this contribute to the structure of his argument? How does he address this opposing view?

What ideas are expressed in both the majority opinion and the editorial? Of the three texts, which argument do you find most convincing? Why?

Does one author seem more credible than the others? Why?

Compare the tone of the three texts. What makes a text seem more serious and thoughtful or more emotional?

What words or phrases in paragraph 2 convey Allen’s feelings about the flag? Does understanding his attitude make you feel that his argument is stronger or weaker? Why?

In his editorial, Allen talks about the “sanctity of the human conscience” and the “enlightenment” that comes from debate. Explain how the connotations of these words convey his tone.