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I disagree that offensive expression should be stifled; I think the pastor should absolutely be allowed to burn Qurans. I think it's an example of hideous sense, but we're talking permissible, not smart. Then again, yelling "Fire" in a theater and burning Qurans are both intended to incite people, which is slightly different than just expressing yourself.

So I don't know what the answer is. The problem with allowing the burning is that the reaction comes from overseas, where we have less ability to control things than here at home. Here at home, someone gets offended and steps out of line, we have laws that proscribe what they can and can't do.

But when someone in the Middle East gets offended, they're under other laws.

So it's something to keep an eye on, but I don't think we need to run for the hills yet.