Chilling-effect — In constitutional law, the inhibition or discouragement of the legitimate exercise of a a constitutional right, especially one protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, by the potential or threatened prosecution under, or application of, a law or sanction.
— <p><a href=“http://www.yourdictionary.com/chilling-effect#law">Webster&rsquo;s New World Law Dictionary</a>.</p><p>I remember being taught this principle by Mr Shel Zatkin in 1992 — oddly enough in Rm 314. At least he taught us the phrase and its definition. It’s not until now that I’ve really come to understand its true <i>meaning</i>. I suppose there’s some meta-lesson here as well: the only pathway to true knowledge is experience. More important though is the reminder that fear in the face of threats is normal… and <i>chilling</i>.</p>