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Patriotism is a wonderful thing. Forced patriotism isn't. I think that if a minor in school, with parental support (they are a minor after all), does not wish to say the pledge they should not have to.
Germany had a charismatic leader who was viewed as practically infallible and moved toward nationalization of everything, it wasn't just patriotism. Japan had an emporer viewed as a God. Patriotism in and of itself is not a bad thing.
I do stop short, though, at those who have attempted to stop others from saying the pledge because it then makes their baby who doesn't feel like an outcast. Well, to stand up for what you believe in when it isn't popular DOES often make you feel like an outcast. It's part of it and you have to live with it if you choose to stand up for something unpopular.
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