Why has the Supreme Court upheld the government's banning the burning of draft cards but declared unconstitutional a law banning the burning of the American flag?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Supreme Court upheld the government's ban on burning draft cards because it believed the government had a right to protect draft cards as they were essential to running a draft. However, the Court declared unconstitutional a law banning the burning of the American flag because it viewed flag burning as a form of political speech that was protected under the First Amendment. The Constitution does not have an amendment that specifically protects draft cards, but the government's ability to run a draft is considered a compelling governmental interest that outweighs the restriction on speech. On the other hand, the First Amendment protects political speech, even if it is unpopular or offensive. The American flag is a national symbol, but this alone does not justify restricting speech.

Why Has the Supreme Court Upheld the Government's Banning the Burning