Americanists....worldwide!

From Lugano to La Jolla....what a remarkable amalgam of ideas, insights, and perspectives. Welcome to this site. Mr. Izsa (TASIS) and Mrs. Shaul (LJCDS) invite you to join us in our conversations about the history and the realities of America's history and culture--from a decidedly international perspective.

Each month a new series of questions will be posted here by Mr. Izsa and Mrs. Shaul. Please click on the blog posts and write in your comments for the questions below, per your teacher's instructions.

Please make certain that entries are thoughtfully written (check for typos and grammatical faux pas), as erudite as you can make them, and appropriately worded for a school-related activity (note: students from other parts of the world may not share your same philosophies or your same sense of humor, so please be mindful of our differences).

With every blog session assigned, one or two can be direct responses to the questions, but at least one MUST respond directly to the students who have already written posts, answering one thread per question (more is welcome, this is the minimum requirement).Be specific. Explain why you might agree or disagree with their (his/her) opinions. Feel free to "debate" or "discuss" with your international counterpart. Make sure we can identify you with your name so you can receive credit for your contributions.


Sunday, March 8, 2015

March Question #3


3) Flags are symbolic representations of any country, whether displayed at the Olympic Games, raised during wars/battles, or in the case of the United States, even saluted ritualistically in a "Pledge of Allegiance."   Please read the article below:
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/california-student-group-bans-american-flag-from-lobby/ar-AA9vm3X
In your opinion, should the display of the American flag be banned at either LJCDS or TASIS, for all of its symbolism?  Is it okay at American institutions for the flag to be flown each day, or, out of respect to others, should it be banned, as it was in this university's lobby?
Posted by at 9 comments:

March Question #2

2) ISIS (the Islamic State) is a fundamentalist Islamic organization that is making headlines for its "ruthless" treatment of those with alternative beliefs.   In their minds however, they are following acceptable cultural/religious practices.  Contrast this to the Ku Klux Klan of the late 19th century and early 20th century and its "ruthless" attacks on African-Americans.   Should there be limits on "free speech" and "freedom of religion" when it leads to fatal consequences?   To what point should such groups be allowed to hold and express their beliefs?

Posted by at 13 comments:

March Question #1

1) It was less than 100 years ago that women finally earned the right to vote in the United States.   Even today, there are renewed calls for an Equal Rights Amendment to be passed that states, "Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex."   In your opinion, what would the advantages of disadvantages be of passing such an amendment?   Is this a necessary step to continually promote the equal treatment of women?



Posted by at 13 comments:
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