Apple removes WhatsApp and Threads from [Apple' China] App Store,

We could hardly expect Apple to defy government orders to stop distributing a certain program, whether those orders are backed by valid judgments or arbitrary commands. But why does that choice come down to Apple at all? For a simple reason:

Because Apple doesn't allow users to freely install application programs!

Apple is compelled to serve repressive governments in repressing Apple customers because Apple designs the software to give it unjust power over users in the first place.

We should not forget that the apps for WhatsApp and Threads (like those for Facebook and Instagram) are themselves nonfree and therefore freedom-trampling.

The Columbia and Barnard chapters of the American Association of University Professors have condemned the president of Columbia for repression of students protesting in support of Palestine.

They said, “We are shocked at her failure to mount any defense of the free inquiry central to the educational mission of a university in a democratic society and at her willingness to appease legislators seeking to interfere in university affairs.”

The president of Columbia has acted like a coward, and had better develop some courage soon.

"In favor of Palestine" includes a range of views — including some I agree with and others (for instance, calling for the elimination of Israel) that I oppose. People, including students, are entitled to the right to advocate any of those views, or other views different entirely, whether you agree with them or not, whether I agree with them or not. We depend on this freedom and we must defend it firmly.

Questioning the claim that trees communicate and plan.

To control transfer of nutrients is far simpler than consciousness. Trees can do fairly complex behaviors without anything like consciousness,

*54 Columbia Law School Faculty Condemn Administration for Mass Arrests and Suspensions.*

Politicians right and left are trying to censor political views, but censorship by the right wing has an easier time succeeding.