SpinSanity has a well-written story on the hyperbolic use of “treason” and “patriotism” by commentators on both side of the political spectrum. It concludes:
Those who value thoughtful, rational debate should be concerned when these terms are used irresponsibly by those who shape American political discourse. Their continued use to attack opponents will have two effects: to unfairly castigate political opponents and to dilute the terms of their real meanings. Neither outcome is a healthy one.
Amen.
A related story notes that bandying about the term “war profiteer” (again, by both conservatives and liberals alike) is equally counterproductive. Indeed, this is a central theme of the site — trying to attack the use of “spin” and rhetoric to avoid reasoned discussion of the facts. It’s a good place to visit.