Self-censorship

Strange how the free press is so reluctant to print those cartoons that have caused such a frenzy in parts of the Muslim world and Europe. Newspapers have little compunction about publishing hurtful caricatures of Christian symbols (even a crucifix immersed in a jar of urine is fair game), and talk of a Christian "Taliban" is all too common.

Where then does this hesitation about offending Muslims come from? While one might hope that the media are becoming more sensitive toward those with strong religious beliefs, I believe the explanation lies elsewhere. Seeing embassies burning and Dutch filmmakers butchered on the street has a way of turning secular lions into frightened followers of Muslim law.