I should mention that my original question came about in regards to the Mohammad cartoons. Based on what I understand of Islamic culture, I accept and agree that the cartoons are extremely offensive. But as I mentioned during a previous class discussion, barely a day goes by without Americans seeing their flag burned as a method of disrespect. But I as an American understand that the United States is more than the sum of the flag that it uses. No harm can be done to this country by a burning flag, just as no harm can be done to Islam by offensive images. However, the response to either of those actions can do harm, by harming others or creating oppression.