Only with freedom of speech, a message of appreciation

We here at MT, and our many commenters, enjoy a rare privilege.  It's the ability to comment on anything we choose, and to criticize the Established order when it deserves it.  Indeed, even if it doesn't deserve it, there is nothing stopping us from saying what we think.  We hope and try always to be responsible, but the point is that we don't have to be.  And that's important, because it means no Authority decides what's responsible--and stifles its opponents.

Science requires freedom of expression to be properly self-monitored, to help direct resources in the most appropriate directions when there is an excess of claimants for support, and to help guide the use of science in public policy.

This is a holiday season, in which many of us will be on breaks or traveling in various ways -- we in fact will be away for a few weeks, and posting only occasionally.  Holly will be posting some, too.  It's a time of cheer, but also perhaps a time to reflect:  Where does the inch by inch augmentation of protection become constraint, in a free society?  Where do other kinds of controls also enable an easing of restraint on opinion?  And anyway, why not a little holiday fun?!

So, in the spirit of both objectives, we provide this link (ear worm alert!).

And wish you all Happy Holidays, Bonnes Fêtes, Bones Festes, Felices Fiestas! كل عام وأنتم بخير