quote:

But instead of embracing the absurd nature of its people, the British government shunned the perceived indignity. In an interview with the BBC, Johnson explained that "you want a name that fits the gravity and the importance of the subjects that this boat is going to be doing science into."

The problem is that the British government asked for the people's opinion, which they supplied — with fervor. Boaty McBoatface is ridiculous, over-the-top and silly. Without a doubt. But to ignore that choice is to belittle its supporters, who, yes, may very well be ridiculous, over-the-top and silly themselves.