ABSTRACT
Like the symbolism in the manner of wearing the hair, and in behaviour at greeting and parting, the symbolism of flags lies primarily in their display. But whereas hair is basically a personal symbol, a flag is basically a social symbol. Not an attached, growing, shearable part of a human personality, it is a manufactured object, often made to a formula, detachable from maker or user and meant to show to others rather than to be an ornament to oneself. And yet a flag may be an object of strong sentiment, its symbolism may be deeply felt, and as such it may serve as a symbol for the unity of a large body of people. Now when it is said in Durkheimian fashion that a flag is a symbol to which sentiments spontaneously attach themselves, and that this intensifies social solidarity, what is meant by such statements?
