I agree. It is hard, sometimes, to criticize a thing without referencing it. I think the moderators should have the latitude to decide when the value of a critique rises above the cost of presenting the very thing that this community exists to criticize.

It will be inherently subjective and case-by-case, regardless of how the rule is worded. I think that means our job is to report things we think are wrong, and do our best to trust and respect the moderators who have to make the tough calls.