What is more important than formal protections is the general climate of intellectual life. In a democratic society, dissent, dialogue and discussion are essential for promoting the common good. Rather than making it easier to attack academic dissenters, it would be far preferable to give greater protection to dissenters in government, business and other areas. Dissent should be encouraged. It is part of a necessary feedback process in society that often increases efficiency, not to mention justice.
Formal protections are of little use unless there is, in practice, a vigorous exercise of freedoms.
To achieve such a culture is a difficult but worthy challenge for any society that calls itself free. Dr Martin is in the Department of Science and Technology Studies, University of Wollongong.