Freedom of Speech.

Wish I wasn't in a position supporting this set of poorly drawn, and badly thought out, cartoons, but this is an issue that's very close to my ideological heart, that of being free to express yourself even in the face of mobs. And frankly, that's what the case has become now; it's all about enraged groups of people around the world, who are trying to vent their anger against a perceived wrong, given that the Danish editor has already apologized for causing offence. Really, what more can, or should, you ask for?

Saturday night here, so I'll be brief: I strongly believe that freedom to express ourselves is essential for true progress of any civilization/community. I have no issues with people either feeling offended, or protesting, but asking for a public apology from the governments in question, or for the editors' arrests, and grossly enough beheadings, is surely, approaching insanity.

Incidentally, I suppose I should include this disclaimer given recent events in the country of my residence, but do not click the above link if you're easily offended. I have the utmost respect for all of world's cultures, but I have an even greater respect for the idea of free expression.

Update: Mohammed through the ages (via Metafilter), but disappointingly enough, the website mixes traditional art with post-Jyllands-Posten dirt. Interesting to see Mughal-isque representations in there though.

Further Update: Big Brother Singapore has finally gotten on the act; this page has been blocked by MDA. Apparently highly offensive.

Some sanity from a Muslim observer.