[steplock]

That was meant to show the absolute stupidity of MOST laws!

People have to take responsibility for their actions AND learn to ACCEPT the consequences for their actions.

If you want to insult someone to their face, don't be surprised if they break your nose.

The law has NO PLACE in petty disputes.

Hmmm..breaking the nose WOULD be just a bit too much - maybe - medical expenses should be paid - but that would be the extent of it! The combatants could still part as friends at this point.

Take me to court for a stupid action like this, and someone would find some DIRE consequences for that!

[Protagoras]

Most laws are stupid, but none of those which defend rights are stupid. The fundemental role of government is to defend rights. And people have a right to speak or otherwise make their opinions known without fear of phsical violence from others.

The consequences for punching me in the nose might include deadly force being used on the attacker. The right of self defence is fundamental. Governments have been instituted to prevent that type of violence in society.

A person who burns a flag violates no one else's rights, only their sensibilities. A person who attacks someone else does, that is the difference.