Fair Report Privilege: Press & Official Proceedings

The press, as a vital component of media, has a significant role in informing the public, and the fair report privilege protects its ability to report on official proceedings, ensuring transparency and accountability. The fair report privilege enables the press to disseminate information from official proceedings without fear of defamation claims, thereby fostering public awareness. Official proceedings, which encompass a wide array of governmental and legal functions, are subject to scrutiny and public interest, and fair report privilege allows the media to report on these proceedings without being silenced by the threat of lawsuits. Media outlets rely on this privilege to keep the public informed about matters of public concern, promoting a more transparent and accountable society, with the press acting as a crucial link between official proceedings and the public they affect.

Ever heard of the Fair Report Privilege? No, it’s not a secret handshake for journalists (though it does feel that exclusive sometimes!). Imagine it as a superhero cape for the media, protecting them when they report on official goings-on, even if those goings-on involve some not-so-flattering accusations.

So, what is this Fair Report Privilege in plain English? It’s basically a legal get-out-of-jail-free card (well, not really, but close!) that shields news outlets from defamation lawsuits when they accurately and fairly report on information from official sources. Think court documents, police reports, city council meetings – the kind of stuff that’s already out there in the public sphere.

Why is this so important? Simple: without it, the press would be terrified to report on anything controversial! The Fair Report Privilege is what keeps the watchdogs barking and the public informed. It allows them to shine a light on shady dealings, government blunders, and even the occasional cat stuck in a tree incident reported by the local fire department – without fear of being sued into oblivion. It’s a cornerstone of a free press and an informed public.

In the upcoming sections, we’ll delve into the key players in this drama, from the courts who interpret the rules, to the legislatures who write them, and the government agencies whose reports often trigger the privilege. Plus, we’ll see how media outlets and journalists themselves wield this powerful protection.

At its heart, the Fair Report Privilege is about balance. It’s about ensuring that the press can do its job without being muzzled, while also protecting individuals from unfair and inaccurate attacks on their reputation. It’s a legal tightrope walk, and we’re here to guide you through it!

The Courts: Guardians and Interpreters of the Privilege

Let’s face it, laws are written by humans, and humans… well, we’re not always the clearest communicators, are we? That’s where the courts come in. Think of them as the official “law whisperers.” They’re the ones who take those sometimes-fuzzy fair report privilege statutes and try to make sense of them, giving them real-world meaning. They decide what’s in and what’s out when it comes to this privilege.

Interpreting the Fine Print: How Courts Decode Fair Report Language

So, how do these “law whisperers” do their thing? They pore over the exact wording of the statutes. Does the law say “official proceeding”? The court figures out exactly what qualifies as an official proceeding. Is it just courtroom drama, or does it include city council meetings? What about those super-official-sounding reports from government agencies? The courts decide. Their interpretations become the rulebook for journalists.

Landmark Cases: Shaping the Privilege Through Rulings

The courts don’t just make abstract pronouncements. They do it through real cases, often called landmark cases. Here are a couple of examples:

• New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964): Okay, this one isn’t exactly a fair report privilege case, but it laid the groundwork. It established that public officials have a higher burden of proof in libel cases, meaning they have to show “actual malice” (knowing the statement was false or reckless disregard for the truth). This made it tougher for them to win libel suits, giving the press more breathing room.
• Medina v. Time, Inc. (2003): This case, although not as nationally known as New York Times v. Sullivan, shows how courts grapple with the “fair and accurate” requirement. The specifics of this case delve into what constitutes a fair and accurate summary of an official report, even if it contains potentially defamatory information. The ruling shows the importance of accurately reflecting the content, even if it is controversial.

These cases, and many others, have significantly shaped the scope of the privilege over time. By studying these rulings, we can start to understand how the Courts influence and define the Fair Report Privilege.

Judicial Review: Freedom of the Press in the Balance

Think of judicial review as the ultimate check and balance. Courts get to decide if laws, even those passed by legislatures, are constitutional. If a law restricting the fair report privilege goes too far, the courts can strike it down, protecting the freedom of the press. It’s like the court is the referee in the game between the government and the media, making sure everyone plays fair.

Jurisdiction Junction: The Patchwork of Laws

Here’s where things get a little tricky: fair report privilege laws can vary from state to state. What’s protected in California might not be protected in Florida. And federal law, while it offers some protections, doesn’t always cover everything at the state level. It’s a legal patchwork, and journalists need to know the rules of the game in the specific jurisdiction where they’re reporting.

Legislatures: The Architects of the Fair Report Privilege

Think of legislatures as the master architects of the Fair Report Privilege. They’re the ones who get to draw up the blueprints, decide where the walls go, and ultimately, define the shape of this critical legal protection. Legislatures hold the power to create, tweak, or even solidify the Fair Report Privilege into official law. It’s like they’re saying, “Okay, here’s how we’re going to balance the public’s right to know with the need to protect people’s reputations.”

Legislative intent is the secret ingredient that helps us understand how these laws should be interpreted and used. It’s like reading the architect’s notes to figure out why they designed a building a certain way.

Crafting the Legal Framework

How exactly do legislatures set up the legal framework for the Fair Report Privilege? Well, they do it through statutes – formal written laws. These statutes spell out exactly what kind of reporting is protected, who can claim the privilege, and what the limits are. It’s all about setting the rules of the game.

Unraveling Legislative History

Ever wonder what lawmakers were really thinking when they passed a law? That’s where legislative history comes in. By digging into committee reports, debates, and other documents, we can get a sense of the intent behind the Fair Report Privilege laws. This helps courts and lawyers understand how the law is supposed to work in practice.

Potential Reforms and Amendments on the Horizon

The legal landscape is always changing, and that includes the Fair Report Privilege. Legislatures are constantly considering new reforms or amendments to these laws. Maybe they’re trying to adapt the privilege to the digital age or address some unforeseen consequences of existing laws. It’s all part of the ongoing process of keeping the law up-to-date and relevant.

Current Debates and Proposed Changes

Right now, there are some lively debates happening around the Fair Report Privilege. Some people argue that it needs to be strengthened to protect journalists in an era of increasing litigation. Others worry that it’s too broad and allows the media to unfairly damage reputations. These debates often lead to proposed changes in the law, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s happening in the legislative arena.

Government Agencies: The Fair Report Privilege’s Favorite Playground

Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of government agencies, the veritable treasure troves of information that can make or break a journalist’s day—and their defense against a potential libel suit! These agencies are constantly churning out reports, statements, and findings, making them prime sources for news. But here’s the kicker: reporting on these official pronouncements often falls under the cozy umbrella of the fair report privilege.

Decoding the Agency-Privilege Connection

So, how does this work? Basically, the fair report privilege gives the green light to media outlets to report on official government documents and proceedings without fear of being sued for defamation, even if the information contains potentially damaging statements. Think of it as a “get out of jail free” card, provided you play by the rules.

What Kind of Agency Reports Get the Golden Ticket?

Not all agency reports are created equal. Generally, we’re talking about official reports, meeting minutes, press releases, and other formal communications from government bodies. These could be anything from a health department’s report on a disease outbreak to a congressional committee’s findings on a particular issue. If it’s official and public, it’s potentially fair game.

Honesty is the Best Policy (and Protects You Legally)

Now, here’s where it gets real. The key to successfully invoking the fair report privilege is accuracy and impartiality. You can’t just twist the facts or cherry-pick information to fit a particular narrative. You need to present a fair and balanced summary of the agency’s report. Think of yourself as a translator, not a spin doctor.

When the Privilege Takes a Vacation

But hold on, partner! Before you start printing headlines based on every government document you can find, remember there are exceptions. Leaked, unverified documents are a major no-no. If you’re reporting on something that hasn’t been officially released or confirmed, you’re venturing into dangerous territory. Similarly, if you know the information is false or are recklessly disregardful of its truth, the privilege won’t save you. It’s all about responsible, ethical journalism.

Media Outlets and News Organizations: Your Shield Against Libel Lawsuits

Ever wonder how the media fearlessly reports on scandals, court cases, and government shenanigans without getting buried under a mountain of lawsuits? Well, friends, meet the fair report privilege—a superhero cape for news organizations facing libel claims. It’s their trusty sidekick when they’re just trying to keep you informed about matters of public interest. Think of it like this: the media has a right to report on official proceedings, and you have a right to know what’s going on!

When the Fair Report Privilege Saves the Day

Let’s dive into a few real-world scenarios where this privilege acted as a news organization’s knight in shining armor. Picture this:

• Case Study 1: The Political Scandal. A local newspaper reports on a city council meeting where allegations of corruption are made against a prominent politician. The newspaper accurately summarizes the statements made during the meeting, attributing them directly to the speakers. The politician sues for libel, claiming the allegations are false and damaging. However, the court rules in favor of the newspaper, citing the fair report privilege. The newspaper correctly reported on an official proceeding, even though the allegations themselves were defamatory. The reporting practices, like attributing information accurately, really supported the privilege’s application in the Court!

• Case Study 2: The Corporate Lawsuit. A TV news station reports on a lawsuit filed against a major corporation, detailing the claims made in the court documents. The corporation sues for libel, arguing that the report damaged its reputation. The news station successfully invokes the fair report privilege because it provided a fair and accurate summary of the court filings, a matter of public record.

Uh-Oh! When the Privilege Doesn’t Work

But hold on, the fair report privilege isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card. Sometimes, media outlets stumble, and the privilege crumbles.

• Case Study 3: The Unverified Leak. A news website publishes a story based on leaked documents from a government investigation, which accuses a private citizen of wrongdoing. The website doesn’t verify the documents’ authenticity or seek comment from the accused. The citizen sues for libel, and the website cannot rely on the fair report privilege because the leaked documents were not part of an official proceeding and the reporting was not fair or accurate.

• Case Study 4: The Biased Report. A radio station reports on a police investigation, but they selectively quote from the police report to make the suspect look guilty, even though the full report contains exculpatory information. The suspect sues for libel, and the radio station loses because its reporting was deemed unfair and biased, failing the standard of accurate reporting.

The Golden Rules: Attribution and Verification

So, what’s the takeaway? For media outlets, the fair report privilege is a powerful tool, but it comes with responsibility. The name of the game is:

• Accurate Attribution: Always, always, always attribute information to the official source.
• Verification is Key: Double-check your facts, especially when dealing with potentially damaging information.

By following these guidelines, news organizations can confidently report on matters of public concern, knowing they have a solid defense against libel claims. It’s all about keeping the public informed while playing by the rules.

Reporters and Journalists: Your Superhero Guide to the Fair Report Privilege!

Alright, reporters and journalists, listen up! You’re basically superheroes, right? Armed with the power of the pen (or keyboard), you’re out there fighting for truth and justice! But even superheroes need rules and a trusty shield. That’s where the fair report privilege comes in. It’s your shield against those pesky libel lawsuits when you’re just trying to do your job and keep the public informed. Let’s dive into the key responsibilities that’ll keep your reporting on the straight and narrow. Think of it as your superhero training montage, journalist style!

The Accuracy Imperative: It’s Not Just a Good Idea, It’s the Law!

First and foremost, remember accuracy is everything. I cannot emphasize this enough, folks. You’ve got to be like a hawk, triple-checking your facts, figures, and even those tricky names. Even if you’re reporting on information that seems like it’s from Fort Knox (official government sources, ya know?), it doesn’t give you a free pass to be sloppy. In fact, it makes your duty to be accurate even more important.

Think of it this way: If the official record says the mayor ate a donut, you can’t report that he ate a whole bakery! Get the picture? Fairness goes hand-in-hand with accuracy. Always present the information in a neutral way, even if the source material is, shall we say, less than neutral.

Your Shield is Only as Strong as Your Source Attribution

Ready for a pro-tip? Proper attribution is your best friend. Always, always, always tell your readers where you got your information. This isn’t just good journalistic practice; it’s also key to wielding the fair report privilege like a pro. Imagine that you’re at an ice cream store, and you want your favorite flavor, chocolate, and you need to show what shop you got it from, and then they know, ah, that is your favorite shop!

Don’t Be a Parrot: Fair and Accurate Summaries Only!

When diving into those official documents and reports, resist the urge to just copy and paste. The fair report privilege isn’t a license to become a human photocopier. You need to summarize the information fairly and accurately. Pick out the key points, present them in a way that’s easy for your audience to understand, and don’t distort the meaning of the original source. You’re creating a news digest, not a carbon copy! And always remember, context is king (or queen!).

Ethical Tightrope Walking: Tread Carefully

Okay, let’s get real for a second. Sometimes, the information you’re reporting on is going to be potentially defamatory. It might damage someone’s reputation, even if it’s technically true. That’s where your ethical compass comes into play. You need to weigh the public interest in the information against the potential harm to the individual. Is it essential for the public to know this information? Or is it just juicy gossip? This is the tough part, folks, but it’s what separates the good reporters from the great ones.

Remember, the fair report privilege is a powerful tool, but it’s not a get-out-of-jail-free card. It’s a shield that protects you when you’re acting responsibly, ethically, and with the utmost commitment to accuracy and fairness. Now go out there and report the truth, like the superhero you are!

Legal Professionals: Litigating and Interpreting the Law

Ever wondered who’s in the trenches when the ink hits the fan? Well, behind every media outlet flexing the fair report privilege, there’s a legal eagle strategizing, advising, and sometimes, duking it out in court. These are the legal professionals – the unsung heroes (and sometimes villains, depending on which side you’re on) in the saga of libel law.

The Lawyer as Media Whisperer

First up, you’ve got the lawyer as the media client’s closest confidante. Think of them as the Obi-Wan Kenobi to the journalist’s Luke Skywalker, guiding them through the treacherous terrains of defamation law. They’re there to explain the ins and outs of the fair report privilege, helping newsrooms ensure their reporting sits squarely within the bounds of the law.

They’re the ones who say, “Careful there, young Padawan, that source might not qualify for the privilege!” or “Yes! You can report on that city council meeting, just make sure it’s a fair and accurate summary!” They analyze potential risks before a story even hits the presses, making sure the media outlet is standing on solid legal ground.

Defense Strategies: When the Lawsuit Hits

Now, let’s say the worst happens: a libel suit lands on the doorstep. What then? That’s when the lawyers roll up their sleeves and get ready to defend.

Their strategy might involve arguing that the reporting qualifies for the fair report privilege because it accurately reflected an official proceeding. They’ll gather evidence, cite precedents, and maybe even bring in expert witnesses to prove that the media outlet acted responsibly and within the bounds of the law. It’s like a legal chess match, and the fair report privilege is a key piece on their side of the board.

Recent Rulings and Trends: Keeping Up with the Times

The world of law never stands still, and neither does the interpretation of the fair report privilege. Lawyers have to stay on top of the latest court decisions and legal trends to effectively advise their clients. Is the definition of “official proceeding” expanding to include online forums? How are courts treating reports based on leaked documents? These are the kinds of questions legal professionals wrestle with every day.

Navigating the Legal Labyrinth

Fair report privilege litigation isn’t a walk in the park. It’s full of challenges and complexities. There’s varying state laws, different interpretations by judges, and the ever-present tension between freedom of the press and the protection of individual reputation. Lawyers have to navigate this labyrinth with skill and precision, balancing the interests of their clients with the broader public good.

Academic Scholars: Unsung Heroes of the Fair Report Privilege

Ever wondered who really sweats the small stuff when it comes to something like the fair report privilege? Sure, lawyers are in the trenches, and journalists are on the front lines, but it’s the academic scholars who are often toiling away in libraries and lecture halls, dissecting, analyzing, and ultimately, shaping our understanding of this crucial legal concept. Think of them as the intellectual architects of the privilege, constantly evaluating how it stands up against the ever-evolving landscape of free speech and defamation law.

Deciphering the Code: How Scholars Decode the Fair Report Privilege

Legal scholars are like codebreakers, except instead of cracking secret messages, they’re deciphering the intricacies of the fair report privilege. They pore over court decisions, legislative records, and philosophical arguments to understand exactly what the privilege means, how it should be applied, and what its limitations are. They look at the language of statutes, the intent behind laws, and the impact of court rulings to provide a nuanced understanding that goes beyond just the surface level. It’s like they’re saying, “Okay, we think we know what this means, but let’s really, really dig deep and make sure!”

Shaping the Narrative: Research’s Impact on Free Speech and Defamation

The research conducted by these scholars isn’t just some abstract exercise. It has real-world implications. Their work helps us understand how the fair report privilege balances the right to a free press with the need to protect individuals from defamation. They examine whether the privilege is working as intended, whether it’s being interpreted too broadly or too narrowly, and what the consequences are for both the media and the public. In essence, their research helps shape the narrative around the privilege, influencing how we think about it and how it’s applied.

Must-Read Material: Key Publications and Studies

So, where do you go to find this scholarly wisdom? Luckily, there’s a wealth of academic literature on the fair report privilege. Keep an eye out for articles in law reviews, journals on media law, and books that delve into the intricacies of defamation and free speech.

From Theory to Practice: How Academic Analysis Makes a Difference

Ultimately, the analysis and insights provided by academic scholars have a direct impact on both legal and media practices. Their research informs the arguments made by lawyers in court, the policies adopted by media organizations, and the decisions made by judges when interpreting the law. Their deep dives also help journalists understand the scope and limitations of the fair report privilege, ensuring that they can confidently report on matters of public concern without fear of unwarranted legal repercussions. It’s all about bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that the fair report privilege is not only well-understood but also effectively applied in the real world.

Individuals and Organizations Defamed: Seeking Legal Recourse

So, you feel like your good name has been dragged through the mud? Maybe something you read online or saw on the news made your jaw drop, and not in a good way. You think, “That’s totally not true, and now everyone thinks it is!” If you believe you’ve been defamed, you might be wondering what your options are. Let’s break down the legal landscape and what it takes to seek recourse when you feel wronged by a published report, especially when the pesky fair report privilege gets thrown into the mix.

What are your legal avenues?

First things first, you have the right to explore legal action. That usually starts with consulting a lawyer specializing in defamation law. They can help you assess the strength of your case and advise on the best course of action. This could involve sending a demand letter asking for a retraction or correction, or even filing a lawsuit for damages. However, it’s not as simple as saying, “They lied about me!” There are hurdles to overcome, and the fair report privilege is often a big one.

Climbing the Defamation Mountain

Proving defamation isn’t a walk in the park. It’s more like climbing a mountain in flip-flops. You need to demonstrate several things:

• That the statement was, in fact, false. This is key. Opinion, hyperbole, or “alternative facts” usually don’t count.
• That the statement was published (meaning it was communicated to someone other than you). A secret thought doesn’t count!
• That the statement was about you and that people would reasonably understand it was about you.
• That you suffered damages as a result. This could be financial losses, reputational harm, emotional distress, etc.
• And if that wasn’t hard enough, you’ll need to prove the person/entity making the statement was somehow at fault. At least in many instances.

But here’s the kicker: even if you prove all of that, the media outlet can still win if they can successfully invoke the fair report privilege. This is where things get really tricky.

The Fair Report Privilege: A Shield for the Media

The fair report privilege essentially protects journalists (and sometimes others) from defamation lawsuits when they accurately and fairly report on information from official proceedings or public records. Think court documents, government reports, city council meetings, etc.

So, even if a news outlet publishes something defamatory about you, they might be shielded from liability if they were simply reporting on what’s in an official police report, for example. The challenge then becomes proving that the report wasn’t fair or accurate, or that the media outlet acted with malice (more on that below).

Public Interest vs. Personal Harm

Courts often weigh the public interest in having access to information against the potential harm to an individual’s reputation. If the information comes from a reliable source, is of public concern, and is reported accurately, the courts are more likely to side with the media outlet, even if it causes you personal distress.

The Malice Factor

To overcome the fair report privilege (or in some cases even be successful in your libel claim), you might need to prove that the media outlet acted with “actual malice.” This doesn’t mean they just had a bad attitude. It means they knew the statement was false or recklessly disregarded whether it was true or false. This is a very high bar to clear. You basically have to prove they knew they were publishing a lie, or were so careless about the truth that it’s almost the same thing.

In a Nutshell

If you believe you’ve been defamed, exploring legal options is definitely on the table. Just be prepared for a potentially uphill battle. Proving defamation is complex, and the fair report privilege offers significant protection to the media. Understanding the legal landscape and consulting with an experienced attorney is crucial to navigating this challenging area of law.

Public Officials: A Unique Perspective

Okay, folks, let’s dive into the world of public officials and how the fair report privilege dances with them! Reporting on public figures is like walking a tightrope – the stakes are high, and the winds of public opinion are always blowing. It’s a world where scrutiny is turned up to eleven and reporters are expected to keep up.

Heightened Scrutiny: Under the Microscope

Imagine being a public official; every move you make, every word you utter is fodder for news. This heightened scrutiny isn’t just because people are nosy (though some are!). It’s because these individuals wield power, and the public has a right to know what they’re up to.

Think of it like this: If your neighbor paints their house purple, it’s their business. But if the mayor decides to paint the town hall purple… well, that’s a story! So, reporting on public officials comes with extra attention because their actions directly affect the lives of citizens.

The Fair Report Privilege and Official Conduct: Drawing the Line

Now, where does the fair report privilege fit in? Basically, it gives the media the green light to report on official statements and proceedings involving these officials without fear of libel suits, so long as the reporting is fair and accurate.

But here’s the kicker: it mostly applies to their official conduct. What they do in their private lives is usually off-limits unless it somehow affects their public duties. Did the mayor embezzle funds? Fair game. Did the mayor wear mismatched socks to a party? Probably not a story (unless those socks were, like, REALLY offensive).

“Actual Malice” Standard: A Higher Bar

Here’s where things get interesting: Public officials have to clear a much higher bar to win a libel case. They have to prove “actual malice.” What’s that, you ask? It means they have to show that the media knew the information was false or acted with reckless disregard for whether it was true or not.

Proving actual malice is like finding a unicorn riding a bicycle – incredibly difficult. It protects the media from frivolous lawsuits and ensures they can do their job of holding public officials accountable without constant fear of litigation. This higher standard acknowledges the importance of robust debate, even if it gets a little messy sometimes.

Political Discourse and Accountability: Keeping ‘Em Honest

In today’s world, political discourse can feel like a cage fight. But the media’s role is to wade into the arena, report the facts (as fairly as possible), and keep these public officials accountable. The fair report privilege is a crucial tool in this endeavor.

It enables journalists to report on controversies, debates, and even scandals without the chilling effect of potential libel suits. This ensures that the public stays informed, can participate in political discussions, and can hold their elected officials responsible for their actions. Without the ability to freely report, our political landscape would be a whole lot murkier.

Legal Publishers: The Unsung Heroes of Fair Report Privilege Knowledge

Okay, so we’ve talked about the courts, legislatures, and even those government agencies that sometimes feel like they’re trying to provide fodder for news stories. But let’s give a shout-out to the real MVPs behind the scenes: legal publishers. Think of them as the librarians of the legal world, quietly making sure we can all find our way through the maze of laws and court decisions related to the fair report privilege.

These aren’t your grandma’s dusty old law books (though some of those are probably still around!). Legal publishers are all about providing access to the latest case law, statutes, and, perhaps most importantly, expert legal analysis. They’re the ones who compile all those court rulings that define exactly what the fair report privilege is and how it works. They also give you the actual text of the laws passed by legislatures that create the privilege. It’s like having a legal encyclopedia at your fingertips!

The Digital Age: Legal Databases to the Rescue!

Remember the days of sifting through endless stacks of books? Yeah, legal publishers have saved us from that. The rise of legal databases and research tools has completely revolutionized how we understand and apply the fair report privilege. Need to know how a specific court ruling might affect a journalist’s ability to report on a town hall meeting gone wild? Just type in a few keywords, and bam – you’ve got a list of relevant cases, articles, and expert opinions. Tools like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg Law have become essential resources for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of fair report privilege law. They offer powerful search capabilities, up-to-date information, and often, insightful commentary from legal experts.

Name Dropping Time: Key Publishers and Resources

So, who are these legal superheroes? While there are many out there, some of the big names you’ll want to know include:

• Westlaw: Known for its comprehensive case law coverage and the American Law Reports (ALR).
• LexisNexis: Another powerhouse with a vast database of legal information and analytical tools.
• Bloomberg Law: A more recent player, but quickly gaining ground with its user-friendly interface and focus on practical guidance.

These publishers, along with others like Thomson Reuters (which owns Westlaw), Wolters Kluwer, and smaller specialized firms, all play a vital role in ensuring that journalists, lawyers, and anyone else interested in the fair report privilege can access the information they need to understand and apply this critical legal protection. They truly are the unsung heroes helping us navigate the sometimes-confusing world of media law!

So, the next time you’re sharing news, remember the fair report privilege. It’s not a free pass to spread gossip, but it does let you report on official proceedings without fear, as long as you’re playing it straight. Pretty neat, huh?