In my first week as editor, back in mid-March, when open shoes were still viable in Canberra, I said that we at Pearls and Irritations do not pretend to be disinterested observers.

We look at issues through a progressive lens and seek truth through evidence and honest debate. We seek, in leaders, the moral courage required if we are to tackle existential threats.

What I have learnt in the 12 weeks since is that this does not just apply to the Pearls and Irritations team, but to the 24,000 readers and more than 1000 authors. The Pearls and Irritations community is defined by genuine independence and flexibility of mind, a strong sense of right and wrong, and a drive to get on and make things better. We don’t always agree, and we shouldn’t. But when we don’t, we argue honestly, using facts, logic and decency. Such a community is a precious thing – even more precious with all that swirls around us. Something worth........

© Pearls and Irritations