Patriotism is as sickening today as it has ever been. I was watching the news before you came and there was a lot of coverage of Kosovo and the problems there. They showed footage of people burning an American flag. And the newscaster got all broken up and teary-eyed. He says, 'I guess [sob] I just feel something here, folks, when I see the American flag being burned.' And I said, 'You fucking asshole. Whatever happened to the news?'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Vidal criticizes modern patriotism and media sensationalism, particularly regarding flag burning coverage.
- In plain terms
- He finds patriotism and emotional news reactions about flag burning disgusting.
- What can you take from it?
- Media should report facts, not indulge in patriotic sentimentality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What role should emotion play in news?
- Is patriotism inherently problematic?
Another view
Dismissal of patriotic symbols may ignore their value to many citizens.
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