> I remember one episode where the Fat Controller hires new engines to break a strike. There's obvious political overtones there that reflect the times it was written in perhaps. But in the context of the kids watching and learning, it's about not throwing tantrums to get your way, and the new engines being polite and humble in their work.

Do you think there is ever a legitimate reason to challenge authority? I mean, what determines whether going on strike is "throwing a tantrum"? Is it the mere act of disobeying authority?