Flags of despair

Many were shocked by the reactions of some French people, the conspiracy theories and base instincts stirred by the devastating fire at Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral. They shouldn't be.
A significant part of the French people are experiencing unprecedented pressure and uncertainty. They have already seen their once-safe world collapse. They are becoming poorer. They are witnessing historic chateaux and wineries being sold off to the highest Chinese bidder and being given new - and what many deem inappropriate - names. They have acutely felt the pressure of the migrant crisis, especially in Paris, and have also had a dearth of robust leadership capable of seriously addressing their concerns and seeking a way out of the quagmire.
So, when these people see one of their most iconic landmarks destroyed, it stands to reason that they will be frightened about the future, about...