Quote of the day

"If we really want to tackle problems like extremism and terrorism, then we need to be safe to explore the issues and get a better understanding. The last thing we need is people too frightened to discuss an issue or research a subject because they fear being arrested or reported."

Sally Hunt, general secretary of the University and College Union, commenting on the arrest and six-day interrogation of a student at my alma mater for conducting legitimate academic research into al-Qaida.

As someone who often works on books on this and similar topics, I do sometimes wonder how authors are able to work without fear of harrassment and suspicion. We live in times when heightened sensitivity and vigilance is unfortunately necessary, but it's vital that the fist of the state shouldn't suppress and strangle academic freedom on our campuses.

(Thanks to Jon for the link.)