Texas vs. Johnson

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 of the following were reasons why Justice Brennan did NOT want to punish flag-burning? (CHOOSE ALL THAT APPLY)

• The flag represents freedom and tolerance

• Punishing flag-burning isn't effective

• We should allow people to say bad ideas so we can educate them, not just punish them

• The flag is a sacred object

Which of the following were reasons why Chief Justice Rehnquist DID want to punish flag-burning? (CHOOSE ALL THAT APPLY)

• The flag is an important part of American history

• People are united by the American flag

• People will be encouraged to burn the flag in the future if it's legal

• The flag is a sacred object

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.

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

• 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 vs. Johnson decision?

• First Amendment

• Second Amendment

• Fourth Amendment

• Fifth Amendment

In the context of Texas vs. Johnson, what does 'expressive conduct' refer to?

• Verbal speech

• Symbolic actions

• Written communication

• Digital media