The Flying Fish

Terms of Service – “The Flying Fish” by Tomasz Goetel

© 2025 Tomasz Goetel. All rights reserved. Unauthorized replication, distribution, or commercial exploitation of my texts constitutes intellectual infringement — and will be met with legal reprisal.

The mirror we hold to chaos reflects only absurdity, not instructions. Interpret satire as satire, philosophy as thought experiment, and ledger ink as ink—not marching orders.

PLEASE NOTE: All content on this Substack provides satirical, opinion-based, and existential reflections on philosophy and history for intellectual and entertainment purposes. It does not advocate, incite, promote, or condone violence, harm, illegal activities, discrimination, or extremism. References to individuals or concepts are solely for satirical or analytical critique, supported by cited sources where applicable, and are not intended to defame, mislead, or cause harm. Opinions expressed are not factual assertions and reflect information available at the time of writing. No third-party data is collected or sold.

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using “The Flying Fish” authored by Tomasz Goetel, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, please do not use our services.

2. Freedom of Expression

Expression Policy: “The Flying Fish” is dedicated to facilitating open dialogue and commentary on political, social, and cultural issues. We uphold the principles of free speech as protected by Article 11 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and Article 54 of the Polish Constitution, including its strong anti-censorship laws. However, this freedom is balanced with respect for laws against hate speech, incitement to violence, and defamation. It is important to note that “hate speech” can be somewhat ambiguous in EU law, lacking a universally precise definition, which means interpretations can vary. We aim to moderate content based on clear legal boundaries and community standards.

Content Moderation: While we encourage diverse viewpoints, we reserve the right to moderate or remove content that violates legal standards or our community guidelines. This includes content that:

• Infringes on the rights of others

• Promotes or incites hatred or violence

• Contains false or defamatory statements

Critique and Commentary: We offer critique on published materials for educational or commentary purposes, which we believe falls within fair dealing provisions for criticism or review, but we will respect copyright by attributing sources and not reproducing more content than necessary for critique.

3. Copyright

Third-Party Content: When critiquing or analyzing content from other writers, we ensure to credit the original author and comply with copyright exceptions for criticism or review.

If you are a rights holder and believe your content has been used improperly, please contact Tomasz Goetel at tomaszgoe@protonmail.com for easy, immediate resolution.

4. Disclaimer

Opinions and Accuracy: The content on “The Flying Fish” reflects the opinions of Tomasz Goetel and does not necessarily represent the views of any other entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of information provided.

5. Liability

Limited Liability: We are not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or exemplary damages resulting from the use of our services, to the extent permitted by applicable law.

6. Changes to Terms

Modifications: We may amend these Terms at any time. Your continued use of the service post-update signifies acceptance of these changes.

7. Governing Law

Jurisdiction: These Terms are governed by Polish law, with regard to EU law, particularly in respect to users from Poland, where the freedom of speech and data protection laws will also apply.

8. Secure Transmission

To ensure editor safety and operational security, certain publications may be transmitted or posted using encrypted or secure methods, including virtual private networks (VPNs) or other privacy-enhancing technologies. This practice is solely for the protection of the author and does not alter the jurisdictional framework or legal compliance outlined above.

9. Privacy Policy

Data Collection: This publication collects exactly two data points:

A. Email required for Substack subscription (stored solely by Substack, Inc.).

B. IP address and device strings (standard Substack logs, not exported).

Tracking & Retention: No cookies are used beyond Substack defaults. There are no third-party trackers and no analytics beyond what Substack provides. There is no sale of data. Data is not retained beyond Substack’s standard 60-day roll-off period.

10. Contact Information

Reach Us: For any inquiries or concerns, please email Tomasz Goetel at tomaszgoe@protonmail.com.

ADDENDUM: Legal Foundations

(Included for clarity and reference)

Article 11 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and receive/impart information without interference. Limitations must be proportionate and necessary in a democratic society.

Article 54 of the Polish Constitution ensures freedom of expression and explicitly prohibits preventive censorship and press licensing. Restrictions may only be imposed by statute to protect state security, public order, health, morals, or the rights of others.