Check your Understanding

What did the Supreme Court decide should happen to people who burn the flag?

• They should be punished for violating the first amendment

• Their punishment should be determined by state laws, not by the Supreme Court

• Their punishment depends on which of the conflicting rights in the First Amendment is more important

• They should not be punished because their actions are protected under the First Amendment

What is the purpose of the italicized words such as Barnette in the text?

• They identify the authors of Brennan's research sources

• They identify important court decisions related to this decision

• They are the names of previously charged flag burners

• They list officials who disagree about whether flag burning is legal

Which of these describes Brennan's opinion of the American Flag?

• It plays a special role in American society

• Strong laws should protect it from disrespect

• The government does not have reason to protect it

• It is of no worth