But, then again, perhaps it could. It wasn't that long ago that we found ideas - and people - being suppressed because they were deemed offensive or unacceptable - to a very different order. In those days we fought fiercely for the right to dissent, the right to hold views that differed from the mainstream, the right to diversity of views and voices. And now, because we don't like - abhor, even - what those voices are saying, we wish them silenced.
I'm still glad Frank Ellis is no longer using his academic freedom to nurture his poisonous perspectives. But I can't help feeling troubled and mournful over the sacrifice of the principle that should have me fighting for his right to have the space to do so.