Legal Commentary

I won't weigh in on the continuing debate in the comments to another post here on whether it is possible to be blunt and unyielding in defense of what one considers the truth, or at least sound argument, and against falsity and unsound argument, without being uncivil, and on where the line between civil and uncivil discourse lies in academic debate.  I just want to concede, albeit reluctantly and modestly, a point that Dan Markel makes in a comment.  It is true: I am "courageous, pointed and yet overwhelmingly polite."  (He also says the same thing about Rick Garnett, but whatever.  Enough about him.) 

In fact, I like the observation so much that I would have it tattooed across my chest, if Jewish law did not forbid it.  It certainly has immediately entered my continually updated short-list of potential epitaphs for my tombstone, where it is now #3 with a bullet.  I will also pass the news along to my wife, who will be surprised and gratified to hear it.

Incidentally, if you replace the phrase "overwhelmingly polite" with "Canadian," it still works.