Sir, I enjoyed reading the article on Self-regulation in dentistry and the social contract (BDJ 2016;221: 449–451). For once, an article clearly emphasising the shift in dynamics of the GDC body from when it was first established in 1956. It is interesting to note that this opinion is shared by most, if not all dental professionals. Why is it then, that we as sound beings (and I am as guilty myself as anyone else) are sitting back and allowing the self-regulatory body to overpower us to the extent that we are frightened of practising our own profession? Are we waiting for someone to give us a voice? Little faith was pronounced to the BDA while they contested against the abominable rise in the Annual Retention Fee (ARF). Why are we afraid of taking matters into our own hands? As the deadline for the ARF once again arises in December 2016, what would happen if ALL of us stood united and decided not to pay this ARF? Surely not all dental professionals would be suspended from the GDC? We have forgotten that revolutions come about due to unity within communities... when people come out and SPEAK! It is sad that an individualistic society is now encouraged and unity and trust has depleted, not just between patients and dental professionals, but the whole of humanity in general. In a world where the masses sleep, the GDC can easily take the authoritarian stance because they know that although the majority of us will indeed be demoralised and upset, none of us will take a stand or refuse to pay their so called necessary fees. In the end our innate scepticism and obedience always makes us comply. When did we start believing that change is impossible?

1. London