189 - Lapel and other pins

This is an excerpt from Kathleen Parker's column about Barack Obama. But it's a good stand alone point.

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There was a time not long ago when displaying one's political or religious affiliations — as well as one's affections — was considered seriously bad form. Today, it's bad form to be private, and votes swing on which candidate lays on the best kiss. From crucifix necklaces and fish lapel pins that declare "I'm a Christian" to colored rubber wristbands that convey solidarity with cancer victims and environmentalists, we've become a nation of exhibitionist symbolists. Competitive caring is the new national sport in which the victor is judged not by acts of charity, but by the number of bracelets stacked on his wrists. We wear stickers after we vote or give blood, and we plaster yellow ribbons on our SUVs, lest anyone doubt we support our troops. By making symbols fashionable, we've ratified boasting as an act of redemption and elevated empathy to an existential conceit. I care, therefore I am. I care more than you do, therefore I am more than you are.

Link - Whole article