Texas v Johnson Reading

What is the MAIN REASON the Supreme Court ruled that flag-burning was actually legal?

• It was only illegal by Texas law

• It's a form of "expressive conduct" protected by the 1st Amendment

• Johnson wasn't actually hurting anyone

• It's allowed during a protest

Which statement best paraphrases the sentence, "We decline, therefore, to create for the flag an exception to the joust of principles protected by the First Amendment. . . ." (lines 1–2) from the Court Opinion by William J. Brennan?

• The Court will not take sides on such principles.

• The flag is less important than other such principles.

• The Court is more important than other such principles.

• The flag is the same as other such principles.

What counterargument does Justice Brennan make against Texas's “implicit assumption” that burning the flag will lead to riots?

• People only riot when they care deeply about something

• There is no evidence to support this assumption

• The First Amendment prevents citizens from rioting

• People who riot will be severely punished

Allen compares the Supreme Court decision on flag burning with the Chinese government's decision regarding protesters in Tiananmen Square to show that

• the U.S. and China agree on how to treat protesters.

• protests are becoming less peaceful around the world.

• allowing protest is fundamental to the U.S. ideal.

• the two events have little relationship to one another.

Allen's point of view is that burning the flag sparks controversy because it

• communicates in a powerful way.

• endangers people's lives and property.

• facilitates meaningful dialogue.

• threatens Americans' basic freedoms.

Which sentence best summarizes how the First Amendment protects freedom of expression?

• Only expression that offends no one is protected.

• Speech is protected but symbolic actions are not.

• Even distasteful expressions of opinion are protected.

• There are no exceptions to freedom of expression.

What does the Supreme Court ruling here say should happen to those who burn the flag?

• They shoud be punished for violating the First Amendment.

• Penalties should be determined by individual states laws.

• Punishment depends on which constitutional right matters most.

• Nothing: their actions are protected by the First Amendment

Which statement best describes Brennan's majority oinion of the flag?

• It plays a special role in American society.

• Strong owas should protect it from disrespect.

• The government has little reason to protect it.

• It is symbolic only and has no real worth.

What is the primary legal issue addressed in Texas v. Johnson?

• Freedom of speech

• Right to bear arms

• Right to privacy

• Freedom of religion

Which amendment of the U.S. Constitution was central to the Texas v. Johnson case?

• First Amendment

• Second Amendment

• Fourth Amendment

• Fifth Amendment