Scott Alexander deletes his blog Slate Star Codex to prevent the New York Times from revealing his real name, citing professional and safety concerns. Longer summary

Scott Alexander announces the deletion of his blog Slate Star Codex due to a New York Times reporter planning to reveal his real name in an article. He explains his reasons for maintaining pseudonymity, including professional concerns as a psychiatrist and personal safety. Scott expresses hope that the NYT will reconsider their policy, allowing him to restore the blog. He provides alternative platforms for his community and asks supporters to politely contact the NYT about their doxxing policy. The post includes later edits addressing the eventual publication of the NYT article and its negative tone. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander argues for a legitimate 'spirit of the First Amendment' that protects the marketplace of ideas, criticizing tactics that silence rather than address arguments. Longer summary

This post discusses the concept of 'spirit of the First Amendment' and its implications for free speech. Scott Alexander disagrees with Popehat's criticism of this concept, arguing that there is a legitimate meaning to it. He explains that the spirit of the First Amendment is about protecting the marketplace of ideas, where arguments succeed based on evidence rather than the power of their proponents. Scott distinguishes between good responses to arguments (addressing ideas) and bad responses (silencing them), including methods like getting people fired, doxxing, and online harassment. He argues that these silencing tactics distribute power based on popularity and wealth rather than the validity of ideas. The post concludes by stating that bad arguments should be met with counterarguments, not with tactics that silence or harm the speaker. Shorter summary