Dear LFTP: is it socially acceptable to read a stranger's tattoo?

• Dear LFTP: under what circumstances is it socially acceptable to read a stranger's tattoo?

The third letter asks when it's socially acceptable to read a stranger's tattoo — the writer admires the artwork but sometimes encounters phrases or quotes they want to decipher. The hosts land on asking permission outright, noting tattoos are usually meant to be talked about, and debate whether reading a shirt or hat counts differently. The Secular answer: when in doubt, ask permission before ogling, lest admiration be misconstrued — with location-of-tattoo caveats.