We Americans come from an incredible array of backgrounds, and have much in common with each other among other things. We see ourselves bound by common hopes and values that are certainly true in the area of politics and government. For example, most of us share a belief in the values of our liberty, equality, civic duty, and the rule of law. We also share such traditions as a respect for the Constitution and our traditional holiday, Independence Day; we recognize the flag, eagle, and even the images of our astronauts as important symbols, symbols of our pride and independence. All these ideas make up our political culture.
             Many people around the world wonder what the American political culture is like and why it is so important to us. Those people were right to wonder about such things; political culture is part of what makes us independent and whole-the roots that we live by-and our determination to pass it along to other generations. One example we believe is of importance are the fundamental ideas our government makes; ideas based on phrases such as "No taxation without representation", "states' rights", "due process of law", and "it's a free country you know". Other practices that are of importance involve such things as the civilian election of the President or the paying of taxes-these important practices are what helped the survival of the United States.
             Ever so often, America faces important challenges; one challenge, for instance, centers on whether or not burning an American flag in protest should be against the law. Because our flag is a symbol of our nation's independence, it should be treated with respect just like the respect we expect to get from others. Not only is the respect of our... flag important, our right to freedom of speech and our right to protest are of vital importance too. This describes the democratic view of political tolerance, or a w
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