Hand Over Heart

[Archaea]

Originally Posted by Solon

Obviously.

But I was wondering if other people think this is a big deal. You say it can be a big deal - sure; otherwise, CNN.com would have nothing to write about. But is it a big deal to individuals? Do you (or anyone else) care personally?

Should it be a big deal? No.

Might it be a symbolic deal and therefore be an issue tipping things against a candidate? Of course.

However, it is important for an elected representative to be respectful of our history and of symbols. It would be wise to pay respect to those symbols in a manner that tradition and the public expect.

Here's how I look at it. Will people be offended if it doesn't accord with tradition? If yes, then don't offend.

Will people offended if I place my hand over the heart? Probably not.

So what do pragmatics dictate?

Of course, if one is aware of that and intending to offend, then don't take offense at receiving the expected and desired response.