pros and cons of censorship essay

19 Biggest Pros and Cons of Censorship

Censorship is defined as the suppression of ideas, images, or words that some people find to be offensive to them in some way. It happens whenever there are personal, moral, or political values from one group that get placed onto another in some way. Although it is often viewed through the lens of government policies, this processed can be carried out by anyone, including private groups, religious organizations, and even schools.

It must be mentioned that a private group or individual can organize boycotts, demonstrate in protest, and take other actions that are defined as free speech. When taken to the extreme, even rights protected by the First Amendment can become dangerous. The ACLU notes that the Hollywood Blacklists during the McCarthy period were from private pressure groups and not the government.

What is unique about American society is the amount of ambivalence there is toward censorship. Even the 1996 Communications Decency Act in the United States is a form of it, even if the “intentions are good” from the point of view of the majority.

That’s why we must be proactive about the perceived pros and cons that there are with censorship. When it becomes permissible to restrict the actions, words, and thoughts of one group of people, it can create opportunities to target other groups in society too.

List of the Pros of Censorship

1. Censorship can reduce the impact of hate speech in society. The idea that all speech is equal is arguably false. There are words that people use as an effort to shut down the right to speak of others. It took over a century for minorities and women to gain a semblance of equal rights because of the presence of hate speech. Even if it is clothed in the ideas of religious freedom, state’s rights, or patriotism, that doesn’t change what it is to others.

Censorship gives us the opportunity to stop this hate before it can get started. We already live within the confines of education, family, entertainment, commerce, and more. This limiting process creates more opportunities for equality.

2. Censorship can protect children from unhealthy content. Parents have plenty of work to do in today’s society to protect their children from unhealthy influences. There is content everywhere, including items that slip through parental filters and kid-friendly apps, that could lead to harmful encounters in the future. Children have fewer qualms about talking with strangers online than adults do primarily because of the way kids see the world. They have more innocence, curiosity, and might even be shy and lonely.

Censorship allows us to cut through the ignoring of potential threats so that a child’s inexperience and lack of foresight doesn’t get them into trouble. By stopping people before they can act (or the child can respond) to a situation, we can keep everyone safer because of certain restrictions.

3. Censorship can reduce the amount of conflict that is in society. If you look on the Internet long enough, there will be something that can offend anyone. The goal of censorship isn’t to eliminate access to anything that anyone might find to be problematic. We wouldn’t get to go online if that were the case. What we can do with this process is to limit access to information that could have an adverse impact on the overall culture of our homes, communities, or countries.

Netflix and Saudi Arabia work together to create targeted areas of censorship based on this principle. Whether you agree or disagree with the practice, this work removes access to content that might be disruptive to society.

4. Censorship can provide another level of security to a country’s profile. We also use censorship as a way to limit the amount of information that the general public receives every day from their government, businesses, and large institutions. Without this concept, top secret files could be made public with a simple request. Proprietary ingredients wouldn’t be available because of the need for disclosure. By limiting certain types of data from the primary flow of society, there is less of a potential for harm.

5. Censorship protects the rights of artists, innovators, and inventors. Did you know that copyright laws are a form of censorship? The same is said for patents and any other legal construct that gives someone exclusive access to a specific form of content or work without allowing others to do the same. We have these protections in place to protect the “creation rights” of the first person who pursued this idea.

Preventing plagiarism and IP theft gives us the foundation of an economy. If your work doesn’t receive some level of protection, then it can be stolen by someone who can put it together cheaper than you. Small businesses get to stay competitive because of the acceptable elements of censorship that we maintain in society.

6. Censorship provides us with a vehicle to stop false content. There are censorship laws in place that prevent businesses from lying to you about their products or services. Advertisements must be a direct reflection of what you can expect if you make a purchase. Failing to remain honest can result in fines and penalties. Without this advantage, businesses could say or do anything in an attempt to get you to buy their stuff. You can avoid the risks of false pretense thanks to the protections that remain in place because of this advantage.

7. Censorship can work to improve a person’s knowledge. People tend to believe what they see when consuming media and the various forms of content that are available. By removing items that could create a panic from public view, government and law enforcement officials can provide better protection, reduce the spread of rumors, and encourage individuals to review the information they see before coming to a conclusion. People can use this technique to promote the flow of negative data to create a specific result, but this process is also useful for the times when you want to create a positive outcome as well.

8. Censorship can limit the impact of identity theft. There are over 15 million reports of identity theft each year. In a recent data breach reported by Experian, the information of over 120 million people was exposed. When there is so much information floating around on the Internet and in other public places that is readily accessible, then it is possible for people to become victims of a crime without realizing it until they need to apply for credit or receive a notice in the mail.

Children can become victims of identity theft as well. Their clean profiles make for a tempting target, especially if there is no verification of age or data during the application process. Censorship of this information can provide a layer of protection because it stops access to it while holding those who keep it responsible for their conduct.

9. Censorship helped to create our ratings system. There are times when censorship can get out of hand, but it is also a process that can be used for good. An excellent example of this benefit comes from the ratings systems that we use for entertainment products, including movies, video games, and music. Until 1984, films went from PG to R, which eventually led to a PG-13 rating being developed after parents called for action after taking their children to Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.

Ratings on music allow us to see if lyrics are explicit so that we can decide if we want to listen to the song. TV ratings give us a guide to see if a show is appropriate for our needs or what our families want to watch. Movie ratings do the same.

List of the Cons of Censorship

1. It represses one group of people in favor for what the majority wants. A museum director was once arrested because sexually explicit photographs from Robert Mapplethorpe were included in an art exhibited that was being managed. Although the artist’s work displays images, often black and white, that feature nudity and a certain amount of suggestiveness, it was far from violent or suggestive content that would encourage lawlessness.

Under the laws of the United States, it would be fair to say that the country is the most speech-protective nation in the world. When it comes to sexual speech, things are different because there are still remnants of the country’s Puritan heritage remaining in the law. Even the Supreme Court has affirmed that censorship on moral grounds is permissible.

2. It allows people to create a specific narrative in society to call it truth. You will often hear calls for censorship on violence when they see it in video games, read it in books, or see examples of it in film or on TV. The reality of fictional violence is that it does not cause otherwise stable people to suddenly want to hurt someone. If we start suppressing material based on the actions of unstable people, then nothing would be safe from the censorship process.

The work most often cited by people as a way to justify their harmful actions against others is the Bible. As the ACLU points out, Ted Bundy collected cheerleading magazines. If there were a clear cause-and-effect argument that could be proven, then a limit on expression here could be warranted. Until there is such an example, it is not.

3. It stops people from pursuing career opportunities. If we live in a world where everything receives censorship, then it would be a place where nothing could get done without specific permission from someone in charge. That means every business, each idea, and even the foods that you would eat each night would come with an official stamp of approval. It creates an Orwellian landscape where direct supervision by an authoritative figure or state becomes “necessary” for the greater good of all.

Because of this disadvantage, there is always at least one person who sits above the societal constructs. They receive permission to do whatever they want because it is their responsibility to approve everything else. If you have enough wealth or influence, then you could get approvals for things that others would not have.

4. It reduces the overall intelligence of the general public. Censorship requires that the general population be under tight controls so that specific outcomes are achievable every time. It is an attempt to prevent individuals from discovering what the truth of any situation happens to be. Even an attempt at suggesting that content is fake or untrustworthy, as the Trump Administration does so often with the news media, is a way to create censorship from an official capacity.

It’s one thing to have a person say, “I don’t like watching CNN because I feel like their news stories are fake.” When the president of a country says that the news media is the enemy of the state, then it creates a position from authority, especially when he says that it has a “major role to play as far as tone and as far as everything.”

5. It prevents an individual from expressing themselves freely. In a no-rules environment that is completely free of censorship, anyone could post anything that they want without fear of reprisal. The United States walks a fine line along this path by preventing the use of “obscene” items. Other countries take this issue a little further, outlawing social media posts that are determined to be at odds with the official position of the nation’s government.

Nicholas Demas from Mic completed a profile of eight social medial users who were arrested for what they said online in 2013. Matt Woods posted inappropriate comments about a 5-year-old at a time when he was drunk, earning him three months in jail. Some governments use their power to arrest those who are deemed to be in opposition.

6. It shifts where the responsibility of consumption is in society. When the government is responsible for what people can access for information, then there is no longer any personal accountability for one’s actions. This process cedes control of ethics, morality, and standards to whomever is in charge of implementing these policies. Once someone is willing to allow another individual, company, or elected official to tell them how to think, feel, and act, it becomes much easier to let more control over life’s decisions disappear as well. Instead of being individuals, censorship turns people into commodities.

We already see the impact of this disadvantage in China. If someone adds comments that are anti-government, violent, or sexually graphic, then the content is subject to automatic deletion. Do it enough times and the account will be deleted.

7. It creates an adverse impact on the economy at all levels. When censorship starts blocking any form of content because it doesn’t meet someone’s perspective on what is “decent” or offends someone, then there are fewer economic opportunities that become available at all levels of society. Businesses can no longer promote themselves because their advertising might be offending someone. Companies can’t train workers because the processes could be considered offensive by someone. It creates a world where our actions are dictated by others, so those with the loudest voices will typically have the most control.

8. It allows a false narrative to become the truth. If you ask the average person living in North Korea what they think of the world, they’ll tell you that the United States is one of the worst countries in the world, that their standard of living is excellent, and that life is beautiful all of the time. Never mind that the average person in that country earns $3 per month or less, that 18 million people need food assistance to avoid malnutrition, and there is no access to basic medical care. There are also extreme human rights issues, such as a complete curtailing of freedom of expression, religious practices, or even independent civil society organization. It is a land of torture, arbitrary arrest, and public executions.

The Trump Administration wants to label anything in opposition to its viewpoint as being fake because that indicates their content is the truth. It is another form of a false narrative intended to get a specific reaction out of supporters as a way to keep power.

9. It is expensive to be engaged in the practice of censorship. The cost to shut down the Internet to prevent specific content items from being viewed by the general public was over $2 billion in 2015. Cutting connectivity in just one country can be more than $100 million. Those expenses are only the tip of the iceberg to consider when looking at the practical enforcement of censorship on others.

China on its own pays more than $2 billion each year just to keep its firewall in place to limit information access online. There are hundreds of thousands of workers who monitor individual activities, with some sites allowing back-end access to facilitate this work. When you look at the direct and indirect expenses in every other category, the world likely spends over $100 billion to create altered information flows that people accept in fact.

10. It creates repression so that it encourages compliance. One of the most-banned books in the world today is The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien. What is so remarkable about that fact is that the author was a devout Catholic and a good friend of C.S. Lewis. He once wrote a letter to Lewis to say that his trilogy and The Hobbit were unconsciously written from a Christian perspective at first, and then edited consciously to incorporate those themes.

Christian churches and schools are the most likely places where you will see these works banned because they are viewed as being anti-religious or anti-Christian. That’s why a singular viewpoint being in charge of censorship is so dangerous to society. It can be an ill-informed opinion that is completely contrary to the work in question, yet the power it has to condemn can influence countless others.

Verdict on the Pros and Cons of Censorship

Some people look at the idea of censorship as a way to add common-sense restrictions to our daily routines so that we can stay safe and protect our children. The other side of that equation is that families can set their own limits, establish rules, and create circumstances that fit their needs without imposing their morality or beliefs on others.

That’s not to say that all forms of content should be allowed in society. Murder videos, child pornography, and similar items that encourage violence against others or promote actual harm in the images is a safety factor that we cannot ignore.

That’s why the crux of the pros and cons of censorship work to distinguish fictional content from factual items. We don’t outlaw murder mystery novels because someone in the story dies. We would outlaw content that showed a murder because a real person was harmed in the process of its creation.

Pros and Cons of Censorship: A Detailed Breakdown

March 27, 2024 Valeria G

Censorship has been a contentious issue throughout history, with various forms impacting societies worldwide. The practice has sparked debates on its merits and drawbacks, from political censorship to self-censorship. While censorship can protect national security and maintain social order, it also raises concerns about freedom of speech and access to information.

Key Takeaways:

• Censorship has been used throughout history to control information and maintain social order, but it can also infringe on freedom of speech and limit access to information.
• While censorship can be argued as necessary for protecting national security and children from harmful content, it can also be used for propaganda and political control.

What Is Censorship?

Censorship, the control of information and ideas by authorities, has evolved over time for social, political, and moral reasons. It has historically been used to maintain power structures, preserve cultural norms, and protect national security. From ancient to modern times, rulers and authorities have restricted free expression to manage public perception and uphold societal values. Major events such as the Enlightenment period and the rise of totalitarian regimes have shaped the practice of censorship, with technological advancements like the internet offering new methods of control and surveillance. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in navigating censorship’s complexities today.

Types of Censorship

Censorship manifests in various forms, including political censorship laws imposed by governments, religious censorship dictated by faith doctrines, corporate censorship driven by profit motives, and self-censorship practiced by individuals.

1. Political Censorship

Political censorship involves governmental authorities’ suppression of information or expression to control public discourse and protect political interests.

By restricting access to certain content, governments shape public opinion and limit the spread of dissenting viewpoints. By controlling the flow of information, authorities can perpetuate their agendas, manipulate public perception, and maintain their hold on power. For example, propaganda plays a crucial role in political censorship, as governments often use biased or misleading information to sway public opinion.

Case studies worldwide showcase the diverse strategies authorities employ to silence dissent and stifle opposition. Examining the intricacies of these mechanisms provides valuable insights into the dynamics of censorship and its impact on societies.

2. Religious Censorship

Religious censorship restricts the dissemination of content that contradicts religion or challenges established beliefs, doctrines, or practices of religious institutions.

Religious censorship aims to safeguard the traditional values and teachings upheld by a particular faith by controlling the flow of information. Throughout history, religious authorities have imposed strict regulations on publications, artworks, websites, and public speeches to prevent the spread of heretical or sacrilegious ideas. From the banning of certain texts by the Catholic Church during the Inquisition to the suppression of critical interpretations of Islamic scripture, examples of religious censorship abound.

It is essential to recognize that the rationale behind such censorship often stems from a desire to maintain orthodoxy and unity within a religious community. Religious leaders seek to avoid internal divisions and preserve their faith’s doctrinal purity by silencing dissenting voices and alternative viewpoints. The impact of these measures on intellectual freedom, freedom of expression, and the progress of knowledge is a subject of ongoing debate.

3. Corporate Censorship

Corporate censorship occurs when private entities restrict or modify content to align with their business interests, marketing strategies, or stakeholder preferences.

Examining the motivations behind corporate censorship reveals that profit-driven decisions play a significant role in shaping internet content restrictions. Companies often prioritize safeguarding their revenue streams and maintaining favorable relationships with advertisers, leading to the suppression or alteration of certain information that could potentially harm their financial interests.

This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in media and digital platforms, where monetization is crucial in dictating the content disseminated to the public. By analyzing case studies of corporate censorship, such as social media giants implementing algorithms to limit the reach of certain content, one can observe how financial considerations often override the principles of unrestricted information dissemination.

4. Self-Censorship

Self-censorship refers to individuals suppressing their thoughts, opinions, or expressions to conform to social norms, avoid backlash, or protect personal interests.

This behavior often stems from a fear of judgment, sanctions, or consequences for expressing dissenting or controversial views. Moreover, societal pressure to adhere to commonly accepted beliefs or ideologies can significantly drive individuals to self-censor.

It’s essential to recognize that self-censorship is not solely about silencing one’s voice; it can also lead to a suppression of creativity, diversity of thought, and the open exchange of ideas.

Pros of Censorship

Censorship can have positive implications by safeguarding national security, maintaining social order, and protecting vulnerable populations such as children from harmful content.

When implemented effectively, censorship plays a crucial role in regulating the dissemination of information within society. By filtering out potentially harmful or misleading content, governments can prevent the spread of misinformation that may incite violence or conflict.

Censorship can promote a sense of cohesion by ensuring that all citizens are exposed to content that aligns with societal values and norms. It can also shield marginalized groups and individuals, such as victims of cyberbullying or harassment, by removing harmful online materials. Ultimately, censorship can contribute to building a safer and more inclusive community.

1. Protecting National Security

One of censorship’s primary advantages is its ability to prevent disseminating sensitive information that may threaten national security or public safety.

Government censorship also plays a crucial role in protecting classified data and thwarting threats from external entities seeking strategic insights by controlling what information reaches the public domain.

Security measures such as redacting confidential materials or restricting access to certain government information channels are essential to national defense mechanisms. This delicate balance between safeguarding vital secrets and ensuring transparency in governance is a complex challenge faced by governments worldwide.

2. Maintaining Social Order

Censorship plays a role in preserving social harmony and stability by regulating content that could incite unrest, violence, or disruptive behavior within a community.

Censorship aims to prevent the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and war propaganda, which can fuel tensions and exacerbate social conflicts, by controlling the dissemination of sensitive information. It also contributes to maintaining order and civility by filtering out content against societal norms and protecting individuals from harmful influences.

Upholding cultural norms through censorship ensures that values and ethics deemed important by society are respected. This fosters a cohesive community where diverse perspectives can coexist peacefully. In this way, censorship is a tool for shaping public discourse and safeguarding collective well-being.

3. Protecting Children from Harmful Content

Censorship that shields children from exposure to inappropriate or harmful content helps promote their psychological well-being, moral development, and safety in digital environments.

Protecting minors from stumbling upon harmful content is crucial to nurturing a healthy mindset and shaping respectable values from a young age. The impact of unsuitable material on children’s mental health and behavior can be profound, influencing their perception of the world and interactions with others. By creating a safe online space through content filtering, parents and guardians play a pivotal role in safeguarding their children’s innocence and ensuring they grow up responsibly. When considering the ethical dilemmas surrounding restricting access to certain content, weighing the balance between protection and freedom of information becomes a complex challenge in the digital era.

Cons of Censorship

Despite its potential benefits, censorship raises concerns about infringing on individuals’ freedom of speech, limiting access to diverse information sources, and potentially stifling creativity and critical thinking.

When certain ideas or opinions are suppressed through censorship, it can hinder a society’s intellectual growth. By limiting freedom and restricting the flow of information, people may be deprived of the opportunity to engage with different perspectives and challenge their own viewpoints. This limitation on free expression not only inhibits personal development but also stifles the exchange of ideas that is essential for societal progress.

1. Infringes on Freedom of Speech

One of the primary criticisms of censorship is its tendency to curtail individuals’ rights to express opinions, challenge authority, and engage in open dialogue, thereby impeding the democratic exchange of ideas.

When speech is restricted, dissident voices are silenced, hindering the flow of diverse perspectives essential for a vibrant society. This suppression of dissent can lead to a dominant narrative that stifles critical thinking and innovation.

Censorship can create echo chambers where only certain viewpoints are allowed, narrowing public discourse and limiting the space for constructive debates and intellectual growth. It raises ethical dilemmas by determining who can decide which narratives are acceptable and which are not, potentially leading to subjective biases influencing what the public can access and discuss.

2. Limits Access to Information

Censorship can restrict access to a broad spectrum of information, impeding individuals’ ability to make informed decisions, engage in critical thinking, and participate fully in democratic processes.

When individuals lack diverse perspectives and alternative viewpoints, their understanding of complex issues can be skewed, leading to uninformed opinions and stilted discussions.

Furthermore, censorship hampers creativity and intellectual growth by stifling innovation and limiting exposure to new ideas and intellectual advancements.

In a society where information is vetted or suppressed, the fabric of knowledge dissemination is compromised, resulting in a fragmented awareness among the populace.

3 . Can Be Used as a Tool for Propaganda

When used as a propaganda tool, censorship manipulates narratives, distorts truths, and controls public perception, influencing individuals’ beliefs and attitudes through selective information exposure.

Certain agendas are pushed forward through selective content filtration, shaping public opinions and worldviews. Censorship can conceal vital information that challenges the status quo or threatens those in power. The dissemination of distorted facts hinders critical thinking and suppresses dissent, creating an environment where misinformation flourishes. Censorship can turn a country’s or history’s course by molding the collective memory of events and controlling the narrative presented to the masses.

Conclusion: Is Censorship Necessary?

The debate over the necessity of internet censorship still continues to spark discussions worldwide. Proponents advocate for security and order, while critics argue for preserving free speech and information access.

Proponents of censorship often emphasize the importance of maintaining social stability and protecting individuals from harmful content such as hate speech, violence, and news and misinformation. They believe censorship is crucial in upholding public morality and safeguarding national security.

On the other hand, critics raise concerns about the potential abuse of censorship by those in power to silence dissenting voices and control the flow of information, citing instances where censorship has been used to suppress political opposition or restrict artistic expression.

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50 Intense Pros and Cons of Censorship

Pros And Cons Of Censorship

Censorship has always been a controversial topic, provoking strong opinions and impassioned debate.

On one hand, advocates of censorship argue that it is necessary to protect the public from harmful or offensive material. They believe that by limiting access to certain types of content, we can create a safer and more wholesome society for everyone.

On the other hand, opponents of censorship argue that it violates our fundamental rights as human beings. They point out that censorship often leads to the suppression of free speech and expression, which are essential components of democracy and individual liberty.

In this article, I will explore both sides of the argument, examining the pros and cons of censorship in today’s world.

Table of Contents

Pros of Censorship

• Protects national security: Restricting access to sensitive information helps prevent potential threats or attacks.
• Preserves cultural values: Filtering content that goes against societal beliefs or traditions maintains and preserves cultural values.
• Prevents hate speech: Limiting the spread of hate speech contributes to a more inclusive and respectful society.
• Reduces cyberbullying: Restricting offensive or harmful content decreases instances of cyberbullying, protecting vulnerable individuals.
• Filters explicit content: Filtering out graphic violence, pornography, or other explicit materials makes the internet safer.
• Protects children online: Restricting access to explicit or harmful content safeguards young users from exposure to inappropriate materials.
• Encourages responsible media: Regulations hold media outlets accountable for content, promoting responsible journalism.
• Prevents plagiarism: Restrictions on copying others’ work help protect intellectual property and maintain academic integrity.
• Protects personal privacy: Limiting the sharing of personal information can protect individuals from identity theft and privacy breaches.
• Reduces misinformation: Filtering out false information, rumors, or conspiracy theories improves the overall quality of information.
• Maintains public order: Preventing the spread of potentially incendiary content helps maintain social stability.
• Promotes respectful discourse: Encouraging the use of respectful language fosters civil discussions and debates.
• Protects artistic integrity: Restricting unauthorized use of copyrighted materials preserves the integrity of original works.
• Upholds copyright laws: Ensuring the proper use of copyrighted materials protects creators’ rights and rewards their efforts.
• Reduces identity theft: Limiting access to personal information helps protect individuals from identity theft and fraud.
• Ensures public safety: Restricting access to potentially dangerous information, such as instructions for illegal activities, keeps the public safe.
• Promotes healthy behavior: Discouraging the promotion of harmful activities, such as substance abuse or self-harm, supports public health.
• Encourages creativity: By limiting reliance on existing works, creative individuals are pushed to develop original ideas.
• Reduces offensive material: Limiting the spread of offensive content helps create a safer and more respectful environment.
• Prevents defamation: Restricting false or damaging statements about individuals protects their reputation and prevents harm.
• Ensures political stability: Limiting the spread of extremist views or disinformation helps maintain a stable political environment.
• Regulates advertising ethics: Ensuring that advertising is truthful and non-deceptive protects consumers and maintains ethical standards.
• Protects religious sensitivities: Respecting and protecting diverse religious beliefs fosters a more inclusive society.
• Controls corporate manipulation: Limiting the influence of corporations on media and content prevents manipulation and promotes fairness.
• Empowers responsible journalism: Holding journalists accountable for accuracy and ethics helps maintain public trust in news sources.

Cons of Censorship

• Restricts freedom of speech: Censorship can infringe on individuals’ rights to express their thoughts and opinions freely.
• Suppresses creativity: Limiting access to diverse content may stifle artistic expression and hinder creative development.
• Promotes ignorance: Restricting the flow of information can limit individuals’ understanding of different perspectives and ideas.
• Limits access to information: Censorship can prevent people from accessing important information, hindering their ability to make informed decisions.
• Encourages propaganda: Restricting free access to information can lead to the promotion of biased or misleading narratives.
• Hinders scientific progress: Limiting the exchange of ideas and research can slow down scientific advancements and discoveries.
• Violates human rights: Restricting freedom of expression and access to information can infringe on basic human rights.
• Leads to discrimination: Censorship can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and biases, leading to discrimination and social divisions.
• Supports government control: Restricting information can enable governments to maintain control and suppress dissenting opinions.
• Stifles social change: Limiting the discussion of controversial topics can hinder societal progress and the development of new ideas.
• Increases public mistrust: Censorship can contribute to a lack of trust in institutions and the media.
• Reduces cultural diversity: Restricting content from diverse sources can limit exposure to different cultures and ideas.
• Encourages intellectual laziness: Limiting access to diverse viewpoints can hinder critical thinking and intellectual growth.
• Damages artistic expression: Censoring artists can stifle their creativity and limit the range of artistic works available to the public.
• Breeds intolerance: Restricting exposure to different viewpoints can contribute to a lack of understanding and tolerance for diverse perspectives.
• Infringes on privacy: Censorship measures may involve intrusive surveillance or monitoring, infringing on individuals’ privacy rights.
• Perpetuates stereotypes: Limiting content can reinforce harmful stereotypes, contributing to social divisions and misunderstandings.
• Hinders economic growth: Restricting the free flow of information and ideas can limit innovation, potentially hindering economic growth.
• Encourages underground media: Censorship can lead to the development of underground or illicit media sources, which may be less regulated.
• Limits civic engagement: Restricting access to information can hinder citizens’ ability to participate in political processes and make informed decisions.
• Discourages whistleblowers: Censorship can deter individuals from exposing corruption or unethical practices, allowing such issues to persist.
• Hides government corruption: Restricting information can enable corrupt officials to hide their actions from public scrutiny.
• Infringes on net neutrality: Censorship measures can conflict with the principle of net neutrality, which advocates for equal access to online content.
• Slows global communication: Censorship can hinder the free flow of information and ideas between countries, slowing down global communication and collaboration.
• Reduces transparency: Restricting access to information can decrease transparency in government actions and decision-making processes.

Advantages Of Censorship

Censorship, a term that evokes strong emotions and opinions from people around the world. While some may argue that censorship is an infringement on free speech, others believe it to be necessary for maintaining social harmony and protecting vulnerable groups.

One advantage of censorship is its impact on creativity. By limiting certain types of content or language, censors can push artists and creators to think outside the box and find new ways to express themselves.

However, it’s important to note that censorship looks different in various countries – what might be considered acceptable in one nation could be deemed inappropriate in another.

Overall, while there are valid arguments against censorship, it’s clear that this practice has had positive effects on artistic expression and societal norms in many regions across the globe.

Disadvantages Of Censorship

While there are advantages to censorship, it is important to also consider the negative effects and ethical concerns that come with it.

One of the main drawbacks of censorship is that it limits freedom of expression and can hinder creativity. When certain ideas or perspectives are suppressed, individuals may feel discouraged from sharing their opinions or pursuing creative endeavors. Additionally, censorship can lead to a lack of diversity in media and limit access to important information.

Furthermore, there are ethical concerns surrounding censorship as well. It raises questions about who gets to decide what content is appropriate for public consumption and whose values should be prioritized. Censorship can also be used as a tool for those in power to maintain control over society by suppressing dissenting voices.

To summarize, while censorship may have its benefits, it is crucial to recognize the potential negative consequences and ethical issues at play. As a society, we must weigh the costs and benefits carefully before implementing any form of censorship.

The Impact Of Censorship On Society

Did you know that according to a recent survey, 83% of Americans believe censorship is necessary to protect society from harmful content?

While this may seem like a high number, it also raises questions about the balance between protection and freedom.

Censorship can often be used as a tool for authoritarianism, limiting access to information and stifling dissenting voices.

On the other hand, some argue that censorship can actually promote artistic expression by pushing creators to find creative ways to convey their message within the boundaries set by censors.

Ultimately, the impact of censorship on society depends on how it is implemented and who holds the power to decide what should or shouldn’t be censored.

It’s important for individuals to critically evaluate both the pros and cons before coming to a conclusion on this complex issue.

The Role Of Censorship In Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Censorship can be beneficial in protecting vulnerable populations from harmful content, but it can also have limitations in terms of freedom of expression.

It can limit access to certain materials that may be beneficial to those vulnerable populations.

On the other hand, censorship can lead to the restriction of important information that vulnerable populations may need to access in order to make informed decisions.

It can also be used to manipulate opinions and stifle dissent, potentially leading to a lack of access to certain viewpoints.

In some cases, censorship can help keep vulnerable populations safe, while in others it can be used to restrict their access to information and resources.

Ultimately, it is important to consider the potential pros and cons of censorship when considering its impact on vulnerable populations.

Benefits Of Censorship

We all want to feel safe and protected, especially those who are vulnerable. That is why many people believe that censorship has positive effects in safeguarding these populations from harmful content.

By imposing necessary restrictions on media outlets, we prevent the dissemination of violent or explicit material that could cause emotional harm or trigger traumatic experiences for some individuals.

Moreover, censorship can also encourage responsible journalism by ensuring accuracy and fairness in reporting sensitive issues such as sexual assault or suicide.

While there may be concerns about limiting freedom of speech, it’s important to acknowledge the benefits of censorship when it comes to protecting our most vulnerable members of society.

Limitations Of Censorship

However, while censorship may have its benefits in protecting vulnerable populations, it also raises ethical concerns and cultural sensitivity issues.

Who gets to decide what content is deemed harmful or inappropriate?

What happens when different cultures clash over what constitutes as offensive material?

Moreover, censorship can limit the public’s access to important information and stifle free expression, which are fundamental rights that must be upheld.

Therefore, we need to carefully consider the limitations of censorship before implementing such measures for the sake of protecting our most vulnerable members of society.

Impact On Vulnerable Populations

As we continue to explore the role of censorship in protecting vulnerable populations, it is important to consider its impact on those who are already marginalized.

While censorship may be implemented with good intentions, it can also perpetuate existing power imbalances by silencing certain voices and perspectives.

Additionally, cultural diversity must be taken into account when deciding what content should be censored.

What may be deemed offensive or inappropriate in one culture may not necessarily hold true for another.

It is crucial that we approach censorship with sensitivity and nuance to ensure that we do not inadvertently harm those whom we seek to protect.

Balancing Freedom Of Expression With Societal Responsibility

While censorship can play a role in protecting vulnerable populations, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and ethical considerations of government intervention in restricting freedom of expression. Balancing individual rights with societal responsibility is a complex issue that requires careful consideration.

To further explore this topic, here are some pros and cons of censorship:

• Can protect children from harmful content
• Can prevent hate speech and discrimination
• Can maintain national security by limiting access to sensitive information
• Can limit artistic expression and creativity
• May be used as a tool for political oppression
• Can lead to ignorance and lack of critical thinking skills

It is important to recognize that while censorship may have its benefits, there are also significant downsides that must be taken into account. Additionally, any decisions regarding government intervention in matters related to free speech must be made with careful consideration of ethical implications.

It is crucial for individuals and societies alike to weigh the costs and benefits before implementing policies or practices related to censorship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does censorship affect creativity and innovation in different fields.

Censorship can have both positive and negative effects on creativity and innovation in various fields.

In art, some argue that censorship stifles the ability to express oneself freely, while others believe it is necessary to protect certain values and beliefs.

On the other hand, in technology, censorship can be seen as hindering progress and innovation, but at the same time protecting individuals from harmful content or cyber threats.

It’s important to consider how censorship affects each field differently before making any sweeping judgments about its overall impact on creativity and innovation.

What Are Some Examples Of Censorship Being Used For Political Gain Or Suppression?

Censorship has been used throughout history as a tool for political gain and suppression.

One example is censorship and propaganda, where governments use media outlets to push their agendas and control the narrative.

Another example is censorship and media ownership, where those in power limit access to information that could threaten their position or influence public opinion.

These practices can lead to a lack of transparency and ultimately hinder democracy.

However, it’s important to recognize that censorship can also be used for legitimate reasons such as protecting national security or preventing hate speech.

Thus, the debate over the pros and cons of censorship remains complex and ongoing.

How Do Cultural Differences And Values Impact The Definition Of “Appropriate” Content For Censorship?

Cultural sensitivity and moral absolutism play a significant role in defining what is deemed appropriate for censorship across different societies.

What might be considered offensive or inappropriate content in one culture may not necessarily hold the same weight in another, making it difficult to establish universal guidelines on censorship.

While some argue that certain values and beliefs should never be compromised, others believe that censorship can stifle creativity and free expression.

It is important to strike a balance between protecting cultural sensitivities while also upholding principles of free speech and artistic freedom.

Can Censorship Be Used As A Tool For Promoting Social Justice And Equality?

While censorship has its limits, it can also be a tool for promoting social justice and equality.

The role of government in determining what is appropriate to censor must take into account the need to protect marginalized groups against hate speech and harmful content.

However, there are concerns about who gets to decide what is considered offensive or inappropriate, which highlights the importance of having diverse voices in decision-making processes.

Ultimately, while censorship should not be used as a means of silencing dissenting opinions, it can play an important role in creating a more equitable society when done responsibly and with consideration for individual rights and freedoms.

How Can Societies Strike A Balance Between Protecting Individuals From Harmful Content And Allowing For Open And Free Expression?

It is crucial for societies to find a balance between protecting individual rights and allowing for open expression when it comes to censorship.

It can be difficult to navigate the ethics and morality of censoring content in today’s globalized world where information travels quickly and easily.

However, it is important to consider that harmful content can have serious consequences on individuals and society as a whole.

Therefore, finding ways to regulate such content while still upholding freedom of expression is necessary.

Ultimately, striking a balance requires careful consideration of both the benefits and drawbacks of censorship, with a focus on promoting fairness, justice, and equality for all individuals involved.

In conclusion, censorship is a complex issue with both positive and negative consequences. While it can protect individuals from harmful content and promote social justice, it also has the potential to stifle creativity and innovation in various fields.

Cultural differences and values play a significant role in shaping what is considered appropriate for censorship, which further complicates this debate.

However, we must remember that ultimately, censorship affects all of us as members of society. It is up to us to strike a balance between protecting ourselves from harm while allowing for open expression and free speech.

Let us strive towards creating a world where our voices are heard, our ideas are celebrated, and our freedoms are respected – without sacrificing safety or equality for anyone.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Censorship

https://www.aclu.org/other/what-censorship

https://extraessay.com/?key_wpg=37b85cbb7e8c20540ee2128bf9e2c5be

https://www.ipl.org/essay/The-Pros-And-Cons-Of-Censorship-And-P3YVKJ42FJE8R

https://learn.g2.com/internet-censorship

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Harvard Law & Policy Review

Online Censorship Is Unavoidable—So How Can We Improve It?

By Ben Horton*

A few weeks ago, Professors Jack Goldsmith and Andrew Keane Woods ignited controversy by suggesting in the Atlantic that China was right and America was wrong about internet censorship and surveillance. This seemingly contrarian stance rubbed people the wrong way , especially given reports that China’s online censorship delayed their response to COVID-19 and that Chinese agents have actively disseminated disinformation about the virus—and then attempted to suppress reports revealing their disinformation campaign .

Except the professors’ critics seem to have missed the point of their essay. Goldsmith and Woods said China was right that the internet inevitably would be censored and surveilled, not that China’s methods were normatively appealing.

Even discounting existing state surveillance and censorship on the internet in the United States, private surveillance and censorship is ubiquitous. And, notwithstanding our intuitions, most people want an internet that is subject to ubiquitous censorship—that is, “content moderation.”

Putting aside illegal content (child pornography, snuff films, etc.), most consumers do not want to be inundated with what Sarah Jeong has dubbed “ the internet of garbage .” They do not want to be harassed, bullied, threatened, or spammed on the internet. And in the midst of a global pandemic, they want to ensure disinformation is kept to a minimum. They want to limit harmful speech.

Part of our problem is we still think of speech burdens in a binary, on-off way. But especially online, the question is not whether you can find content, it is how hard it will be to be find and how much it will be amplified .

The question is not if there will be censorship and surveillance, [1] the question is who gets to do it, and how it is done. Right now a relatively small group of private actors make not only the substantive decisions about content on the internet, they decide the process that drives those decisions and how information flows through their networks. They wield enormous power , and are almost completely unaccountable to the public.

So, what are our options?

Option 1: Stay the Course

First, the United States could continue to shield tech companies from most tort-based liability for content posted on their platforms via Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act , maintain an expansive view of the First Amendment, and not substantively regulate tech companies.

Supporters of the current system largely admit that ubiquitous content moderation is good, so long as it is private. They hold that a system of private speech regulation provides a market incentive for platforms to reach a Goldilocks-zone of content moderation : Enough harmful speech is blocked that it is possible to maintain deliberative communication amid the noise, but not so much that deliberative communication is also blocked. Consumers have a choice, and services that fail to moderate will either fail or be consigned to the dark corners of the internet .

But how real is that choice? Alphabet owns the two most popular websites in the world. Facebook (through its eponymous service and Instagram), Twitter, and Reddit collectively dominate U.S. social media . Over the past twenty years who has rivaled them? MySpace? Snapchat? Yahoo!? Tumblr? Even including these rivals, American consumers have had two significant options for their search engines and four or five social media sites. And, at least in part, that lack of choice is due to the inaction by antitrust enforcers at the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice when Google bought YouTube and when Facebook acquired Instagram . In a monopolistic environment consumers can try to campaign for changes to private companies’ policies, but their effectiveness might rely on some of the substantive regulations discussed below.

As Evelyn Douek has argued, these platforms are increasingly cooperative in their moderation decision-making , making consumer choice even more illusory. YouTube’s policies on terrorism-related content are not significantly different than Facebook’s or Twitter’s because they all belong to the same private group that develops those standards. Facebook’s new Oversight Board is probably a step in the right direction, but what happens if it becomes the de facto decision-maker for social media standards generally?

Finally, the market theory is contingent on the assumption that people choose their networks based on the ability of the network to curate information. But the profit incentive of social media companies is to increase our engagement—which might mean pushing harmful content on users , or at least enabling that sort of thing ( until they’re caught ). The negative effects of this content might be exaggerated , but without greater transparency we just don’t know.

Aside from the harms of disinformation, staying the course has the additional drawback of eliminating the United States from the global conversation about internet governance. As Microsoft President Brad Smith mentioned in a recent interview , in the future, tech companies may simply adapt their products to the regulations of the European Union and other Western democracies that lack stringent First Amendment or Section 230 protections against government involvement in online speech. We already see this to some extent with the NetzDG law in Germany, which, if nothing else, is offering us some useful transparency on content moderation.

Or tech companies themselves might simply decide how public health crises are managed .

Either way, the United States government, for better or worse, will simply not have much of a say in what the internet looks like.

Option 2: Content-Based Regulations

For constitutional reasons, the approach of regulating speech based on its content is closed off to the United States. There is a lively academic debate about the status of lies and hate speech under the First Amendment. But absent a political revolution, it will remain an academic debate. The Supreme Court has said, in an 8-1 opinion , it will not open up new “uncovered” zones of speech. Content-based regulations of harmful speech will continue to be subject to strict scrutiny, and they will continue to be struck down.

In the U.S. context, at least for the foreseeable future, content-based censorship will continue to be ubiquitous and limited to private actors. That does not mean we need to leave the speech moderating apparatus entirely to the private sector.

Option 3: Torts, Competition, Process, and Friction

Contrary to cyber-libertarians, the options available are not limited to “censorship” or no regulation at all. We have other tools at our disposal. The key is to focus on content-neutral regulations, especially those that govern the flow of information rather than regulations that criminalize certain content.

As a threshold matter, these policies do not have to—and likely will not—take the form of flat bans and mandates. They might be conditions attached to liability immunities or tax incentives, and they can—and should—distinguish between different types of online services. Of course, companies have been lobbied, and should be lobbied, to make these changes on their own; I am arguing that there is some role for direct government regulation in these realms.

First, we could reform Section 230. While supporters maintain that Section 230 is necessary to ensure that platforms can engage in decent moderation without fear of liability , detractors argue that a well-crafted alternative could still shield sites that engage in good-faith moderation without shielding sites that are designed to facilitate human trafficking , for instance. And regardless of where you stand on the 230 debate, given bipartisan support for both SESTA – FOSTA and the delayed “ EARN IT Act ,” 230 as we know it is unlikely to survive. If we want sensible intermediary liability protection, and not a patchwork of exceptions that probably make the internet less safe, the 230-or-nothing stance is increasingly politically untenable.

Second, we can advocate for regulations that promote competition, creating a market where consumers have real choices and their choices make a difference. This need not be the traditional “breaking up” of companies given the beneficial network effects consumers find in centralized services and the possible aggravation of harm that a balkanized internet could bring . Pro-competition policy could start with blocking the sale of startups to Facebook and Google . It could include the imposition of substantive requirements, like an information fiduciary responsibility or interoperability requirement on organizations with a certain share of the market. Any regulations, however, need to be sensitive to the needs of non-profits with large user bases and low revenues .

Third, and more controversially, we can require more transparent processes in content moderation. A number of organizations have released and advocated for the “ Santa Clara Principles .” These include, at a minimum, publishing the number of posts and accounts taken down organized by the category of violation, providing notice to users whose accounts or posts are taken down, and instituting some kind of appeal process. If content-based moderation decisions are largely going to be done by private actors, their legitimacy relies on being transparent and understandable to the public. Even if changes are brought about by private pressure, we cannot collectively criticize and improve on secret processes .

Finally, and most controversially, maybe we can impose content-neutral, friction-creating regulations that force consumers to be more deliberate in sharing and consuming information. For instance, WhatsApp recently limited its forwarding function so that any messages that come from a chain of more than five people must be forwarded one chat at a time. This type of rule is not content-based; it applies to speech based on its virality, not the “topic, idea or message” communicated. Disclosure requirements—revealing, for example, whether or not a human is speaking —might also increase friction and deliberation. And some regulations of social media’s “frictionless” design might be allowable under the First Amendment.

These regulations avoid the hard epistemological questions and constitutional hurdles of defining harmful speech. They regulate the flow of information regardless of its content instead of worrying about speech concerning a particular topic. Furthermore, they ban no speech—deliberate communication is unaffected.

There are pros and cons to every policy mentioned, with administrability challenges and constitutional issues . But to reach a substantive discussion of the realistic possibilities for regulation in the U.S. context, the conversation needs to move beyond the false binary of “censorship versus free speech.”

* Ben Horton is a rising 3L at Harvard Law School and an Online Editor for HLPR.

[1] I am not talking about the problems of surveillance presented by innovations like the Ring doorbell , or facial recognition . I am referring to the level of surveillance necessary to ensure that speech is successfully moderated on platforms—being able to tie punishments to certain accounts, for example. That overlaps with the problems of online behavioral manipulation and surveillance capitalism, which I am not addressing in this post.

13 Internet Censorship Pros and Cons

Internet censorship is the ability to restrict specific websites or online content from being viewed. It may come in the form of an edit, regulation, or law issued by the government. It could also occur privately is an ISP objects to the content that certain individuals wish to view.

The advantage of allowing internet censorship is that content which is violent, obscene, or dangerous can be immediately blocked. This protects children from inadvertently viewing content that could be scary or harmful to them, such as the murder and decapitation videos which have made their way to sites like Facebook and Twitter in recent years.

The disadvantage is obvious: internet censorship is a restriction on a person’s ability to view the content they wish to see, when they wish to see it.

Here are some additional internet censorship pros and cons to discuss.

What Are the Pros of Internet Censorship?

1. It creates the chance to set common sense limits. There are some things that just aren’t part of what a society would deem to be healthy. A simple search right now on an unfiltered public search can provide anyone with access to numerous videos that purport to show real murders in progress. High-profile cases, such as the murders of Alison Parker and Adam Ward, were broadcast on-air and then a first-person video of the event made its way through social circles afterwards. Restricting this content sets a common-sense limit on the content that van be viewed.

2. It limits access to harmful activities. There are dark areas of the internet where anything goes right now. Access to illicit drugs, sex trafficking, human trafficking, and child pornography can be accessed with relative ease by those who seek out such things. By restricting content that can be accessed, it limits the opportunities that predators can create to reach out to find new victims.

3. It could lessen the impact of identity theft. One of the fastest growing crimes in the world today is identity theft. NBC News reports that more US citizens were victims of identity theft in 2016 than any year before. More than 15.4 million reports of identity theft were compiled by Javelin Strategy and Research, which reflects a 16% increase in the total number of reports from 2015 figures. Restricting content that would allow identity information to be easily shared could lessen the impact that identity theft causes to a society.

4. It may provide a positive impact on national security. Although hacking will occur no matter what internet censorship laws may be in place, by creating internet censorship regulations with strict and mandatory penalties for a violation, it could become possible to reduce the number of hacking incidents that occur. That could have a positive impact on national security because the restrictions would possibly prevent alleged incidents like what occurred during the 2016 US Presidential election.

5. It stops fake news. Claims of fake news increased dramatically in 2017. Fake news websites promote false reports for money through clicks because readers think the news is real. Internet censorship would provide another level of discernment which could possibly stop divisive incidents that are based on events that never occurred.

What Are the Cons of Internet Censorship?

1. Who watches the watchers? Even if internet censorship is directly supervised and ethically maintained, someone somewhere is deciding on what is acceptable and what is not acceptable for society to see online. At some level, someone does not have anyone to whom they report regarding their censorship decisions. With that kind of power, one individual could influence society in whatever way they chose without consequence.

2. It stops information. Although fake information can be restricted through internet censorship, so can real information. According to the World Economic Forum, 27% of all internet users live in a country where someone has been arrested for content that they have shared, published, or simply liked on Facebook. 38 different countries made arrests based solely on social media posts in 2016.

3. It is a costly process. According to research from Darrell West, VP and Director of Governance Studies and the founding director of the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings, internet shutdowns cost countries $2.4 billion in 2015. The decision to cut connectivity in Egypt came at a cost of $90 million. Censoring content is costly and it will come at the expense of taxpayers.

4. It provides a negative economic impact. What happens if a business has their website blocked because it doesn’t meet an arbitrary standard of “goodness”? Allowing the government or some other entity to declare what is “good” or “bad” for the internet can have a dramatic economic impact at the local level. If a business cannot promote themselves online or sell their goods on an e-commerce platform, then they are placed in a disadvantageous state compared to industry competitors who would be allowed to sell online.

5. It shifts where responsibilities lie. If the government is dictating what individuals can see online, then people are no longer as responsible for the decisions they make. It cedes that control over to the government. Once that control is ceded, it becomes easier to cede more control over responsibility because the action was normalized.

6. It prevents individuals from accessing a freedom of expression. A free internet allows individuals to post what they want. It gives them the chance to freely express their thoughts, opinions, and views. Laws may already exist in many jurisdictions that would allow for the prosecution of individuals who share illegal content already, such as child pornography, so placing additional restrictions would simply create another layer of bureaucracy.

7. A lack of truth leads to ignorance. In 1984 by George Orwell, people in this dystopian environment are kept under tight control so that specific societal results can occur. Once people in this society begin to discover love, they discover truth. That truth prevents them from living in ignorance. With internet censorship, there is a lack of truth which exists in such a policy. That means there is a societal ignorance in place that a ruling party could attempt to control.

8. It limits entrepreneurial opportunities. In a world of internet censorship, entrepreneurs would be forced to have their ideas approved by an oversight committee, board, or individual instead of pursuing the idea immediately on their own. If a business in the same industry as the entrepreneur has enough wealth or influence, they could potentially restrict the entrepreneur from pursuing their opportunity. Such an action would limit innovation in many sectors.

These internet censorship pros and cons show us that what can be used for good can also be used for selfish intent. Who do you think should determine if content is inappropriate? Should it be a government, an oversight committee, or yourself?

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15.4 Censorship and Freedom of Speech

Learning objectives.

• Explain the FCC’s process of classifying material as indecent, obscene, or profane.
• Describe how the Hay’s Code affected 20th-century American mass media.

Figure 15.3

Attempts to censor material, such as banning books, typically attract a great deal of controversy and debate.

Timberland Regional Library – Banned Books Display At The Lacey Library – CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

To fully understand the issues of censorship and freedom of speech and how they apply to modern media, we must first explore the terms themselves. Censorship is defined as suppressing or removing anything deemed objectionable. A common, everyday example can be found on the radio or television, where potentially offensive words are “bleeped” out. More controversial is censorship at a political or religious level. If you’ve ever been banned from reading a book in school, or watched a “clean” version of a movie on an airplane, you’ve experienced censorship.

Much as media legislation can be controversial due to First Amendment protections, censorship in the media is often hotly debated. The First Amendment states that “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press (Case Summaries).” Under this definition, the term “speech” extends to a broader sense of “expression,” meaning verbal, nonverbal, visual, or symbolic expression. Historically, many individuals have cited the First Amendment when protesting FCC decisions to censor certain media products or programs. However, what many people do not realize is that U.S. law establishes several exceptions to free speech, including defamation, hate speech, breach of the peace, incitement to crime, sedition, and obscenity.

Classifying Material as Indecent, Obscene, or Profane

To comply with U.S. law, the FCC prohibits broadcasters from airing obscene programming. The FCC decides whether or not material is obscene by using a three-prong test.

Obscene material:

• causes the average person to have lustful or sexual thoughts;
• depicts lawfully offensive sexual conduct; and
• lacks literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

Material meeting all of these criteria is officially considered obscene and usually applies to hard-core pornography (Federal Communications Commission). “Indecent” material, on the other hand, is protected by the First Amendment and cannot be banned entirely.

Indecent material:

• contains graphic sexual or excretory depictions;
• dwells at length on depictions of sexual or excretory organs; and
• is used simply to shock or arouse an audience.

Material deemed indecent cannot be broadcast between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., to make it less likely that children will be exposed to it (Federal Communications Commission).

These classifications symbolize the media’s long struggle with what is considered appropriate and inappropriate material. Despite the existence of the guidelines, however, the process of categorizing materials is a long and arduous one.

There is a formalized process for deciding what material falls into which category. First, the FCC relies on television audiences to alert the agency of potentially controversial material that may require classification. The commission asks the public to file a complaint via letter, e-mail, fax, telephone, or the agency’s website, including the station, the community, and the date and time of the broadcast. The complaint should “contain enough detail about the material broadcast that the FCC can understand the exact words and language used (Federal Communications Commission).” Citizens are also allowed to submit tapes or transcripts of the aired material. Upon receiving a complaint, the FCC logs it in a database, which a staff member then accesses to perform an initial review. If necessary, the agency may contact either the station licensee or the individual who filed the complaint for further information.

Once the FCC has conducted a thorough investigation, it determines a final classification for the material. In the case of profane or indecent material, the agency may take further actions, including possibly fining the network or station (Federal Communications Commission). If the material is classified as obscene, the FCC will instead refer the matter to the U.S. Department of Justice, which has the authority to criminally prosecute the media outlet. If convicted in court, violators can be subject to criminal fines and/or imprisonment (Federal Communications Commission).

Each year, the FCC receives thousands of complaints regarding obscene, indecent, or profane programming. While the agency ultimately defines most programs cited in the complaints as appropriate, many complaints require in-depth investigation and may result in fines called notices of apparent liability (NAL) or federal investigation.

Table 15.1 FCC Indecency Complaints and NALs: 2000–2005

Violence and Sex: Taboos in Entertainment

Although popular memory thinks of old black-and-white movies as tame or sanitized, many early filmmakers filled their movies with sexual or violent content. Edwin S. Porter’s 1903 silent film The Great Train Robbery , for example, is known for expressing “the appealing, deeply embedded nature of violence in the frontier experience and the American civilizing process,” and showcases “the rather spontaneous way that the attendant violence appears in the earliest developments of cinema (Film Reference).” The film ends with an image of a gunman firing a revolver directly at the camera, demonstrating that cinema’s fascination with violence was present even 100 years ago.

Porter was not the only U.S. filmmaker working during the early years of cinema to employ graphic violence. Films such as Intolerance (1916) and The Birth of a Nation (1915) are notorious for their overt portrayals of violent activities. The director of both films, D. W. Griffith, intentionally portrayed content graphically because he “believed that the portrayal of violence must be uncompromised to show its consequences for humanity (Film Reference).”

Although audiences responded eagerly to the new medium of film, some naysayers believed that Hollywood films and their associated hedonistic culture was a negative moral influence. As you read in Chapter 8 “Movies” , this changed during the 1930s with the implementation of the Hays Code. Formally termed the Motion Picture Production Code of 1930, the code is popularly known by the name of its author, Will Hays, the chairman of the industry’s self-regulatory Motion Picture Producers and Distributors Association (MPPDA), which was founded in 1922 to “police all in-house productions (Film Reference).” Created to forestall what was perceived to be looming governmental control over the industry, the Hays Code was, essentially, Hollywood self-censorship. The code displayed the motion picture industry’s commitment to the public, stating:

Motion picture producers recognize the high trust and confidence which have been placed in them by the people of the world and which have made motion pictures a universal form of entertainment…. Hence, though regarding motion pictures primarily as entertainment without any explicit purposes of teaching or propaganda, they know that the motion picture within its own field of entertainment may be directly responsible for spiritual or moral progress, for higher types of social life, and for much correct thinking (Arts Reformation).

Among other requirements, the Hays Code enacted strict guidelines on the portrayal of violence. Crimes such as murder, theft, robbery, safecracking, and “dynamiting of trains, mines, buildings, etc.” could not be presented in detail (Arts Reformation). The code also addressed the portrayals of sex, saying that “the sanctity of the institution of marriage and the home shall be upheld. Pictures shall not infer that low forms of sex relationship are the accepted or common thing (Arts Reformation).”

Figure 15.4

As the chairman of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors Association, Will Hays oversaw the creation of the industry’s self-censoring Hays Code.

Wikimedia Commons – public domain.

As television grew in popularity during the mid-1900s, the strict code placed on the film industry spread to other forms of visual media. Many early sitcoms, for example, showed married couples sleeping in separate twin beds to avoid suggesting sexual relations.

By the end of the 1940s, the MPPDA had begun to relax the rigid regulations of the Hays Code. Propelled by the changing moral standards of the 1950s and 1960s, this led to a gradual reintroduction of violence and sex into mass media.

Ratings Systems

As filmmakers began pushing the boundaries of acceptable visual content, the Hollywood studio industry scrambled to create a system to ensure appropriate audiences for films. In 1968, the successor of the MPPDA, the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), established the familiar film ratings system to help alert potential audiences to the type of content they could expect from a production.

Film Ratings

Although the ratings system changed slightly in its early years, by 1972 it seemed that the MPAA had settled on its ratings. These ratings consisted of G (general audiences), PG (parental guidance suggested), R (restricted to ages 17 or up unless accompanied by a parent), and X (completely restricted to ages 17 and up). The system worked until 1984, when several major battles took place over controversial material. During that year, the highly popular films Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Gremlins both premiered with a PG rating. Both films—and subsequently the MPAA—received criticism for the explicit violence presented on screen, which many viewers considered too intense for the relatively mild PG rating. In response to the complaints, the MPAA introduced the PG-13 rating to indicate that some material may be inappropriate for children under the age of 13.

Another change came to the ratings system in 1990, with the introduction of the NC-17 rating. Carrying the same restrictions as the existing X rating, the new designation came at the behest of the film industry to distinguish mature films from pornographic ones. Despite the arguably milder format of the rating’s name, many filmmakers find it too strict in practice; receiving an NC-17 rating often leads to a lack of promotion or distribution because numerous movie theaters and rental outlets refuse to carry films with this rating.

Television and Video Game Ratings

Regardless of these criticisms, most audience members find the rating system helpful, particularly when determining what is appropriate for children. The adoption of industry ratings for television programs and video games reflects the success of the film ratings system. During the 1990s, for example, the broadcasting industry introduced a voluntary rating system not unlike that used for films to accompany all TV shows. These ratings are displayed on screen during the first 15 seconds of a program and include TV-Y (all children), TV-Y7 (children ages 7 and up), TV-Y7-FV (older children—fantasy violence), TV-G (general audience), TV-PG (parental guidance suggested), TV-14 (parents strongly cautioned), and TV-MA (mature audiences only).

Table 15.2 Television Ratings System

Source: http://www.tvguidelines.org/ratings.htm

At about the same time that television ratings appeared, the Entertainment Software Rating Board was established to provide ratings on video games. Video game ratings include EC (early childhood), E (everyone), E 10+ (ages 10 and older), T (teen), M (mature), and AO (adults only).

Table 15.3 Video Game Ratings System

Source: http://www.esrb.org/ratings/ratings_guide.jsp

Even with these ratings, the video game industry has long endured criticism over violence and sex in video games. One of the top-selling video game series in the world, Grand Theft Auto , is highly controversial because players have the option to solicit prostitution or murder civilians (Media Awareness). In 2010, a report claimed that “38 percent of the female characters in video games are scantily clad, 23 percent baring breasts or cleavage, 31 percent exposing thighs, another 31 percent exposing stomachs or midriffs, and 15 percent baring their behinds (Media Awareness).” Despite multiple lawsuits, some video game creators stand by their decisions to place graphic displays of violence and sex in their games on the grounds of freedom of speech.

Key Takeaways

• The U.S. Government devised the three-prong test to determine if material can be considered “obscene.” The FCC applies these guidelines to determine whether broadcast content can be classified as profane, indecent, or obscene.
• Established during the 1930s, the Hays Code placed strict regulations on film, requiring that filmmakers avoid portraying violence and sex in films.
• After the decline of the Hays Code during the 1960s, the MPAA introduced a self-policed film ratings system. This system later inspired similar ratings for television and video game content.

Look over the MPAA’s explanation of each film rating online at http://www.mpaa.org/ratings/what-each-rating-means . View a film with these requirements in mind and think about how the rating was selected. Then answer the following short-answer questions. Each response should be a minimum of one paragraph.

• Would this material be considered “obscene” under the Hays Code criteria? Would it be considered obscene under the FCC’s three-prong test? Explain why or why not. How would the film be different if it were released in accordance to the guidelines of the Hays Code?
• Do you agree with the rating your chosen film was given? Why or why not?

Arts Reformation, “The Motion Picture Production Code of 1930 (Hays Code),” ArtsReformation, http://www.artsreformation.com/a001/hays-code.html .

Case Summaries, “First Amendment—Religion and Expression,” http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/data/constitution/amendment01/ .

Federal Communications Commission, “Obscenity, Indecency & Profanity: Frequently Asked Questions,” http://www.fcc.gov/eb/oip/FAQ.html .

Film Reference, “Violence,” Film Reference, http://www.filmreference.com/encyclopedia/Romantic-Comedy-Yugoslavia/Violence-BEGINNINGS.html .

Media Awareness, Media Issues, “Sex and Relationships in the Media,” http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/issues/stereotyping/women_and_girls/women_sex.cfm .

Media Awareness, Media Issues, “Violence in Media Entertainment,” http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/issues/violence/violence_entertainment.cfm .

Understanding Media and Culture Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Pros and Cons of Censorship

Censorship is a controversial topic in modern society. While it can prevent the spread of harmful information, such as pornographic material or propaganda, and protect sensitive military information, it can also compromise freedom of speech, obstruct the free flow of ideas, and prevent legitimate criticism. Censorship can also be used to control people and promote a flattering image of dictators or oppressive regimes. While it can shield the morals of society and promote political correctness, it may also intrude on individual privacy and prevent the public from knowing about human rights abuses.

Pros and Cons of Censorship Censorship is prevalent in the modern society. It is a highly divisive issue. Here’s a look at its pros and cons. Censorship is the control of information and ideas in a society. Both democratic and non-democratic countries use it. With the explosion of communication technology, it has become all-pervasive. There is a dispute as to whether censorship is good or bad. Pros of Censorship • Censorship of pornographic material prevents the corrupting of the children. Religious conflicts are avoided by the censorship of material deemed insulting or offensive to a particular religious community. • Censorship is necessary to preserve the secrets of a nation. • Censorship is useful in hiding sensitive military information, which could be used by an enemy state. • Scenes of people consuming alcohol or smoking influence people to copy them. Hence censoring such scenes serves a useful purpose. • People may copy dangerous stunts shown on TV or movies. Censorship proves necessary here. Books may be used to portray wrong information about individuals or groups that could incite violence against them. Censorship would definitely prove helpful here. • It can be used to prevent politically motivated propaganda. • It protects the privacy of people. • Plagiarism is prevented. • Abusive scenes in movies may offend some people. Censorship prevents that. • It protects indigenous cultures from the bad influence of foreign cultures. • It prevents the public display of disrespect to any particular individual or community. It prevents companies from spreading inaccurate or grossly exaggerated claims about their products. • It promotes political correctness. • Terrorists are prevented from learning about dangerous technology like the atom bomb. • Children are prevented from learning things that could harm them and others. • It prevents the ill effects of globalization affecting societies. • It shields the morals of society. • It restrains vulgarity and obscenity. • The surfeit of violence in movies and TV is restricted by it. • It prevents violence by stopping the broadcast of events, which might trigger it.

Cons of Censorship • If sex-related topics are completely censored it becomes difficult to teach children and teenagers about the dangers of HIV/AIDS. • Dictators and dictatorship use it to promote a flattering image of themselves and for removing any information that is negative to them. • Freedom of speech is compromised. • Religious fundamentalists like the Taliban use them to coerce the population. • It encroaches upon the freedom of the press. • It prevents the free flow of ideas. • It may intrude on the privacy of a person. Withholding of information only leads to ignorance in the society. • Censoring of information may lead to a wrong image perceived by the public. • It is generally associated with dictatorship. • Censorship in books, plays and movies may compromise their entertainment value. • Censorship has been misused in the past. • It is a force against globalization. • It works against creativity. • If you hide something from people they will become extra curious about it. • It has no place in a truly democratic society. • It gives rise to and hides human rights abuses. • It is used to control people. There can be different standards of morals among different societies quite different from the imposed ones by the censorship. • It may be used to block legitimate criticism. • Governments should not control people. It should be the other way around. • Individuals have different tastes. • It stifles the opposition, broadcasting only a particular point of view. • People have a right to know. Used properly, censorship serves as a valuable tool. However, it can also be easily misused. Governments and other regulatory institutions must learn to use it judiciously

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Opinion Front

Media Censorship Pros and Cons: An In-depth Comparison

The media is abuzz with debates about media censorship. What are the media censorship pros and cons that everyone keeps talking about? One glimpse at the article below will tell you that there are pertinent points, both for and against the topic of media censorship.

As the world is progressing towards a society without boundaries, the opponents of media censorship feel that censorship in general is a great hindrance to this progression. But then again, as these various communication media dabble with topics that need not be promoted or talked about at all, the question of censorship arises.

Censorship in the Media

While most countries have given the freedom of speech and expression of thought to its citizens, some countries try to counter the abuse of this right by some people, by restricting the freedom in reception of this speech and expression. Basically, while you’re allowed to say anything you want and do whatever your heart desires (although subject to legal framework), you may not be free enough to listen or appreciate others’ freedom of speech or action. Doing what you want is fine, as long as the others don’t see it.

While each country and each culture monitors the media in one way or the other, the cut-off level which defines what to show and what not to show, differs. There are also different types of censorship. One of the most common criteria is the age limits for viewing different media. Sometimes the censoring can act as a blanket on certain taboo topics, and the definition of a taboo topic would be defined according to the governing authority in the country. So, while the levels of media censorship exist, people are still calling for absolute removal of all types of censorship. Then again, other people are also looking to bring in more restrictions.

Pros of Media Censorship

✱ Firstly, I feel it is important that we reduce the amount of violence that is on TV, at least for our children. We don’t want our children thinking that it is cool to be all heartless and go on picking off people on the streets. On the contrary, emphasis needs to be made on the fact that killing people is illegal and immoral. Hence the amount of violence the media broadcasts ought to be controlled at least for the kids.

✱ Sex is another topic which creates a great hullabaloo among people. Why should sex be shown on TV? Sex, especially porn, sometimes illustrates a lot of unnatural and at times disturbing videos. It is quite likely that it may again have a negative impact on children who might think it to be true. Hence, these two topics, sex and violence, ought to be restricted to people who understand and appreciate that all this is fictional.

✱ One more area where media censorship is heavily applied is in the advertisements of alcohol and cigarettes. Some countries believe that both smoking and consuming alcohol have a negative effect on the human body and ought not to be advertised anyway. Which I feel is a fair point. No tobacco or alcohol company in its right mind would ever air the ill effect of the products they are producing. As it is, these companies already enjoy substantial word-of-mouth advertising. Hence, the media censorship for these companies sounds justifiable to me.

✱ Sometimes dirty laundry ought not to be aired in public. A lot of people give violent speeches and derogatory and unfounded comments on a particular religion or race. Some people may try to spread nonsensical propaganda through an unsuspecting media. While it may take a bit to argue with their freedom of speech, perhaps it is best ignored.

✱ Another interesting argument in favor of media censorship is the security of secrets. Ignorance is bliss, they say and it is in the best interest of a country and its people that the plans of our armies are kept under wraps. Sometimes we need to trust them blindly. One interesting example of where media censorship could have been used, was when the terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. The news reporters explained the counter-terrorist operation in fine detail on TV and perhaps some terrorists in the hotel, in which they were hiding, could have just flicked on the TV and could have been warned of the upcoming actions of the counter-terrorists. Hence, some things are best not known.

✱ To conclude the media censorship I would like to say that the media is an extremely powerful force, which can reap great benefits if used positively and can be very damaging if not. It is like nuclear energy, which if used well, has great benefits for humanity, but there may be some, who might want to use it for the wrong reasons.

Cons of Media Censorship

✱ Sometimes, media censorship may be done to serve the vested interests of the governing authorities. Let’s say that a foreign news channel is running an unbiased documentary on the leadership of your country, the governing bodies of your country cannot do much about what that person or channel is saying, except stop the people of your country from tuning into such shows. Hence here, censorship is used to keep the ignorant, ignorant.

✱ I had previously made a point about how taboo topics like sex are best censored, but just because they are taboo topics, doesn’t mean that they ought not to be dealt with maturity. Sex education and awareness of STDs and AIDS need to be spread in many countries and you cannot brush these pressing topics under the carpet as taboo topics. The question is what to show and what not to show.

✱ Is ignorance really bliss? About some things, maybe. But the knowledge about the emerging technological trends and innovations needs to be spread among the people of the world. If knowledge doesn’t spread, then it leads to intellectual stagnation. The search for knowledge is what has brought humanity to where it is today, and suppression of knowledge would be a step backward rather than forward.

✱ How much freedom is good? Censorship they say negates the freedom of speech. What’s the point of your right to speak if there is no one to listen to what you are speaking? Then why speak at all? Doesn’t the very concept of censorship clash with the idea of democracy? Then if we are going to cover the ears of our listeners, then what is the difference between democracy and dictatorship?

✱ To conclude the cons I would like to say that censorship is all about degree. About how much to show and how much to hide. It definitely has its pros, but if the content in the media is manipulated by some people with vested interests, then the whole point of democracy and freedom of thought goes out of the window anyway.

You can probably see that this debate is largely a matter of beliefs. The questions that the censor boards need to ask themselves are what is the rationale behind the censorship? And are we censoring the media as per that rationale? Is the media being allowed to display what it ought to display? Are they showing things that people want to or need to know about?

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6 Internet Censorship Pros and Cons Everyone Should Know

August 28, 2023 • April Miller

What are the top internet censorship pros and cons? Is censorship online wrong or necessary? We often think of censorship as an abuse of moderation rights. However, there are certain cases where censorship is helpful for protecting users’ safety online. What are the pros and cons of internet censorship everyone should know? 

Internet Censorship Pros

Internet censorship pros and cons aren’t black and white. Many people have a negative perception of censorship, but the reality is that it can sometimes be beneficial. When implemented fairly and responsibly, censorship serves a few important purposes online. 

1. Preventing the Spread of Dangerous Content

The primary benefit of internet censorship is protection against the spread of dangerous or illegal content. Key examples of this include hate speech, illegal activity, cybercrime, threats of violence and misinformation. These types of content can put people in real-world danger, break laws or encourage violence. 

Internet censorship serves the crucial function of monitoring and limiting the spread of dangerous content. It prevents bad actors from using websites to conduct illegal activity or put others in harm’s way. 

2. Controlling Harassment and Bullying

Harassment and cyberbullying are serious problems online today. Among the many internet censorship pros and cons is a limit on content that could be offensive, aggressive or threatening toward others. Censorship can counteract the anonymity that fuels cyberbullying and harassment. 

This is especially true on websites made for children and teens, as well as minority groups who may be disproportionately targeted by online harassment. Censorship can help everyone use the internet without being personally attacked or insulted by others. 

3. Protecting National Security and Personal Information

Censorship isn’t always about preventing people from sharing their unfiltered opinions. Among the many pros and cons of internet censorship is the practical benefit of limiting the spread of sensitive information. 

For instance, a scammer might try to trick someone into posting their social security number online, but the website’s censorship algorithm stops the post from going live. Situations like this are increasingly common today. 

The FTC estimates that at least 95,000 Americans lost money to a social media scam in 2021. Scams and phishing can spread like wildfire online without adequate moderation to weed them out. Using censorship to prevent users from posting sensitive personal information can stop them from making big mistakes and help prevent identity theft. 

Additionally, it’s necessary on a practical level for government agencies to censor the sharing of national security information. When sensitive details about information like military activity or public safety can be freely shared online, it can put millions of people in danger. Internet censorship is necessary to prevent the unauthorized spread of data that could threaten national security. 

Internet Censorship Cons

There is often a fine line between internet censorship pros and cons. What was meant to protect people can quickly — and often — become a problem in its own right without careful and responsible implementation. What are the main drawbacks of internet censorship? 

1. Creating a Slippery Slope

Unfortunately, internet censorship can quickly go from being a safety measure to an abuse of moderation abilities. Censorship guidelines and regulations have to be clear, specific and enforceable or moderators may simply start censoring content based on personal preferences. 

It can be difficult to tell when censorship is beginning to go too far. Often it occurs when the balance between open dialogue and the well-being of the masses is broken. 

For instance, consider a large group of users commenting on a thread discussing a certain religion. They aren’t sharing hate speech, bullying anyone, threatening violence or breaking community guidelines. 

What if a moderator decides he or she doesn’t like what the users are debating about their religion, though? If the moderator censors the thread simply based on their personal dislike for the other users’ opinions, that can be an abuse of moderation rights. 

2. Blocking the Spread of Information

On a large scale, internet censorship can prevent the free spread of information, news and communication. This level of negative censorship most often occurs in nations or groups where the ruling organization prohibits any criticism of their rule or any discussion of ideas contrary to their own. Internet censorship can be used to prevent people from accessing information that might contradict propaganda or misinformation spread by a ruling party. 

Unfortunately, this particular issue can be very murky among internet censorship pros and cons. It relies heavily on an understanding of what exactly misinformation is. People who are convinced misinformation is actual fact may view ethical censorship as oppressive. Similarly, people may call actual facts misinformation in order to exercise unethical censorship. The fine line is all about distinguishing fact from fiction. 

Preventing the oppressive use of internet censorship requires strong media literacy skills to recognize misinformation. There are many free, independent organizations with resources for learning about fake news red flags and improving media literacy. Resources like these can go a long way toward understanding if censorship is fair or crossing a line. 

3. Limiting Freedom of Expression

Many would argue that among the many internet censorship pros and cons is a risk to freedom of expression. There are many countries where free speech is a protected right. In these places, any level of censorship can be seen as an infringement on that right. 

This is a fair concern for anyone to have. After all, if people aren’t hurting themselves or others, why shouldn’t they be allowed to discuss what they want online? The same goes for legal photo and video content, as well, such as a piece of art that some might hate while others love. 

Like any other aspect of internet censorship, there can be a lot of gray area in this criticism. First Amendment freedom of speech rights aren’t as all-inclusive as many people assume they are. For instance, the 1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution does not include the right to “incite imminent lawless action” , such as the online content that fueled the infamous January 6th riot at the U.S. Capitol. 

There’s a popular saying online today that “freedom of speech does not equal freedom from consequences”. Someone may be free to post a threat of violence online, but doing so could get them rightfully arrested on suspicion of a crime. So, internet censorship guidelines have to be careful about blocking illegal or harmful content without eliminating non-violent freedom of expression. 

How to Analyze Internet Censorship Pros and Cons

It can be overwhelming trying to understand internet censorship pros and cons since there is so much gray area between the two categories. Ultimately, censorship is neither inherently good nor inherently bad. When used responsibly and ethically, it helps keep people safe online. However, there’s a fine line between ethical censorship and oppressive censorship. 

So, determining if a certain use of censorship is ethical or not can be difficult. It requires strong media literacy skills and an unbiased viewpoint. If something does get censored online, users can typically contact community support personnel to get more information on why the content was removed or filtered.

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Pros And Cons Of Media Censorship

Media Censorship: Good or bad? On the last decades, the freedom of speech has become one of the most discussed and relevant topics inside general population and governments. When it comes to human basic rights, it is clear that the free and open shared of information and communication between all parts plays an important role to ensure a healthy development and progress. However, to think that every country will be willing to spread all kinds of ideas and opinions without placing a boundary would be a utopian assumption. Since the first steps of the humanity to some sort of organization, boundaries became crucial and necessary in order to keep control over the society while establishing rules and governments on the raising world. On the present …show more content…

Something allowed in the United States could easily be prohibited in Arabia or Pakistan, everything depends directly if the ideas are taken as disrespectful or insulting to a person, religion, among others, and are all control and regulated by each state government. The control in the media is, as any other government action, full of pros and cons about the reasons and results it gives. On one hand, it is important to put a limit on the kind of information, images, videos and others that can get to the population. Sometimes, the citizen from a specific nation is not ready to understand fully the material given to him, especially if this citizen is a child. Violence, sex, drugs, alcohol and other –no fully understandable topics- for some part of the public need to be limited in order to protect childhood and guaranteeing a correct development in a healthy environment. Another positive reason why censor media is effective is the fact that delicate information frequently requires remaining secret to the public to avoid violence or problems inside the nation, especially if the information left out the media is directly attached to national …show more content…

On the other hand, media censorship is also used for wrong motives, mostly by the government who is trying to protect themselves from anti-politics ideas or any other movement against them. Censorship became at some point a weapon apply to keep citizens ignorant, by denying the entry or spread of sensitive information inside the country, authorities assure the status quo remaining, prohibiting to their nation the opportunity to learn more and to think differently, all because this could cause the loss of their power. Media censorship is a delicate matter where there is not a perfect position about it. As is known, media is one of the most important instruments use to communicate opinions in a short period of time to a big part of the world, this makes it a very power device with the capacity to change everything just with one word and give to the society great benefits, but it can also be used in negative ways, affecting directly the good relationship between communities, all critical aspects that make you think it is imperative to establish rational basic rules and boundaries to avoid the media become a dangerous threat to

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Argumentative Essay On Media Violence

Moreover, it triggers certain responses regarding attitude and behavior in the audience. Therefore, it is important to filter or rather watch out the king of media violence our children are exposed to at a tender age and as they grow

Argumentative Essay On Media Censorship In The Media

An Argumentative Essay on Media Censorship Censorship is a control over unacceptable sources found in all forms of media: such as, newspapers, television, and the Internet. Censorship in the media is to examine all the information found in the media, and deleting or censoring anything that is considered objectionable to the state. Each country controls their own media depending on their religious beliefs, culture and moral ideas. There are many reasons to why censorship of the media is a disadvantage. Governments love to control their nations, and a way of controlling their ideas is by censoring information, which citizens have every human right to access.

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• Human rights
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Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Censorship — Pros And Cons Of Internet Censorship

Pros and Cons of Internet Censorship

• Categories: Censorship Freedom of Speech

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Words: 1338 |

Published: Feb 8, 2022

Words: 1338 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, works cited, moral issue, security issue.

• Coleman, B. (2010). Hello China, goodbye freedom: The implications of internet censorship for political dissent in the 21st century. Vanderbilt Journal of Entertainment and Technology Law, 12(4), 891-914.
• Dutton, W. H., Reisdorf, B. C., Dubois, E., & Blank, G. (2017). The Internet trust bubble: Global values, beliefs, and practices. Oxford University Press.
• Foucault, M. (1995). Discipline and punish: The birth of the prison. Vintage Books.
• Gillespie, T. (2010). The politics of ‘platforms’. New Media & Society, 12(3), 347-364.
• Graff, G. (2013). Should we censor the internet? Yes. Intelligence Squared US Debates. Retrieved from https://www.intelligencesquaredus.org/debates/censoring-internet
• Leets, L. (2002). Digital activism: Reclaiming the streets of cyberspace. Gazette, 64(6), 461-476.
• Lessig, L. (2006). Code: Version 2.0. Basic Books.
• Qian, H., & Wu, X. (2019). An overview of internet censorship in China. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 38(1), 4-15.
• Rothstein, H. (2019). The benefits of censorship. In The Ethics and Politics of Speech (pp. 57-80). Springer.
• Zuckerman, E. (2014). Internet freedom: Beyond the stalemate. Journal of Democracy, 25(1), 5-17.

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The Pros And Cons Of Censorship

Censorship Censorship is a phenomenon that has a 100% chance to affect every person’s life and the future lives that will be brought into the world. In our education system, parents have been arguing about whether they should censor textbooks and other literature for children. There have been many protests throughout history either for or against such censorship . There are groups fighting for and against censorship interestingly enough almost for the same reason. They both tend to claim that censorship or lack of is to protect their children now and in the future. To truly understand censorship, we must find its definition, find the groups associated with promoting it, and groups associated with fighting it to truly understand censorship and …show more content…

Some who are generally concerned for their children, those who like to rile up an argument, and those who simply are getting their feelings hurt. Tony Perkins from the Family Research Council wrote that “For years, the American Library Association has been funneling inappropriate material to kids” (“FRC Promotes Pro-Censorship Group”). Perkins insists that the American Library Association is trying to “bust through censor walls, encrypt their communication, and override filters” (“FRC Promotes Pro-Censorship Group”). Perkins went as far to claim that librarians are told to tell students that their book circulation data will never be shared with anyone, including their parents (“FRC Promotes Pro-Censorship Group”). Certain groups such as the Parents Against Bad Books in Schools fight groups such as the American Library Association and the Texas Freedom Network every day. They believe “If enough parents become aware of how many objectionable books there are in circulation and work together in constantly challenging them, situations can improve considerably” said a spokesman from the Parents Against Bad Books in Schools group. Many groups believe that children cannot handle the adult content and situations that some literature does present. These groups challenge the American Library Association and schools all of the time. They challenge literature and textbooks. If they win the challenge, they are awarded the literature or textbook out of the library, school, etc. Some bases for groups challenging literature from 1990 to 2000 are as follows: “1,607 were challenges to sexually explicit material, 1,427 were challenges to material considered to use offensive language, 1,256 were challenges to material considered non age-appropriate or unsuited to age group, 842 were challenges to material with an occult theme or promoting the occult or Satanism, 737 were challenges to

The Pros And Cons Of Government Censorship

Paint this picture: You once desired to watch a Youtube video that you have viewed recently once more, and as you searched it up, you remembered that there was offensive information. When you clicked on the video, a message popped up explaining that the video was blocked, and more importantly, why it was blocked. Although the Youtube administrators most likely blocked this information, this can mirror the controversial topic of censorship. Government censorship is the act of the government blocking information from media, such as books, the Internet, and magazines, due to bias, inappropriate, or offensive content. It keeps the information across these sources in balance of appropriateness. Some believe that it can form positive outcomes to society, but others believe not. Despite the violation of freedoms, government censorship can be beneficial because it removes objectionable/offensive information and restricts societal threats.

Pros And Cons Of Government Censorship

Should all government censorship be resisted? I believe that not all government censorship should be resisted. Internet should be censored such a way that gives an opportunity to collect important and effective information and filter the harmful information. Internet censorship is one of the best examples of government censorship that helps to make the society better. The Internet is a very helpful source for collecting information and learning new thing. However, the internet has positive and negative things equally and negative content has a heavy impact on children lives. Base on age website or application access limitation of harmful material that protects our children from abusing internet and censorship also helps to stop

The Pros And Cons Of Censorship In Schools

Censorship has been around for millions of years. Although censorship is still practised in some countries today, almost anyone would agree that censorship is never the right answer; as we have seen in the past, it has seldomly ever works out. Which is why it is so concerning that schools are starting to allow censorship in classrooms. As a result of this, the world is seeing an alarming amount of young millennials who are fresh into the workforce, expecting to always be catered to. More and more millennials are not being properly prepared for the real world due to censorship in schools; schools have been giving in and catering to students by allowing the censoring of books and microaggressions in the classroom, as a result the students are being taught that the world will cater to everyone, which is very inaccurate.

Why Censorship Is Bad

There are various reasons as to why censorship is used. They include: security purposes, prevent hate speech, to protect vulnerable communities and also to counter unethical religious and political views. Censorship is currently being used for both political and social purposes. Most of these reasons for censorship are not absolute because they hinder people’s freedom of expression and speech. This confirms my argument that censorship is bad in the modern world. Despite some aspects considering censorship to be good, there are several aspects that promote my argument that censorship is bad thus its advantageous nature.

Pros And Cons Of Censorship In Schools

Censorship is "the removal, suppression, or restricted circulation of literary, artistic or educational materials ... on the grounds that these are morally or otherwise objectionable in light of the standards applied by the censor. Challenges to school materials have started to become a more prevalent and common occurrence in society especially in public schools. Public schools usually address censorship issues by taking one or more routes: imposing a list of acceptable literary works on all teachers, providing guidelines for the school district, or giving full authority to teachers to choose appropriate reading material and relying on their discretion. Advocates for censorship in school often target material that discusses race, sexuality, religion, and ethnicity

Censorship In Brave New World Essay

“Research on the Censorship of ‘Brave New World”” Although being a subject of controversy for many decades, the novel Brave New World has survived the test of time and is even considered a classic. With that in mind, this novel is still continued to be challenged as it ranked number 7 in ALA’s “Frequently Challenged Books for the 21st Century” for 2011 (“Frequently Challenged Books for the 21st Century”). This list is composed of books that people don’t believe are suitable for the public to view. Another name for this, when the books are actually banned, is called censorship. However, should people actually be able to infringe on other people’s right to read books based on their narrow moral or religious views?

Censorship Cases in America

Censorship is a widely debated topic, because it has the power to dictate the types of diverse and contrasting ideas exposed to students. There are many different opinions on this subject with very valid reasons behind those opinions. For example, those opposed to censorship say that censorship violates the people’s inalienable

Pros and Cons of Censorship in Schools

“Censorship is the process of suppressing something that is considered objectionable or offensive” (Emert 1). In order for a work to become censored, some authority figure imposes restrictions that establish what would be and would not be allowed to be put in front of the public for people to read. The standards those in authority base their restrictions off of are the standards set by the publishers, producers, and agencies of that work. Censorship is something that affects many people especially in the school system; it normally causes tensions to rise. This is because someone feels that their First Amendment rights have been violated. This most frequently happens in the school system because parents, students, teachers, and or staff find a work offensive in some way and try to get it removed. They bring it to the school board, and if severe enough, the case is brought before a judge in court. In most cases the person or group that tries to get the work censored, loses the case. In some cases, the person trying to censor does win. According to most school boards, they would say that students have their full First Amendment rights, but that is not always the case. When it comes to the Freedom of Expression, most schools find some way to censor, books, and articles especially.

Pros And Cons Of Fahrenheit 451

Censorship keeps individuals from learning. Prabhakar Pillai, author of, “ Pros and Cons of Censorship “ remarks, “ children are prevented from learning things that

Censorship In John Stuart Mill's On Liberty Mills

For as long, as I can remember, censorship has been an issue among society’s free thinkers. There are those that abide by the rules, never thinking twice of the repercussions of actions chosen by commanding authorities. There are those that go with the grain of society’s guidance, yet wonder where the line is drawn in the sand, and where it begins. Then there are those that have witnessed the blinding of society and refuse to have White Out cover the novel that are their opinions and belief. Censorship comes in an extensive array of variations, from speech to educational literature, silencing opinions and facts alike. Different degrees of censorship have been attempted throughout the ages by scholars, civilians, and governments alike. Often

The Controversy Of Censorship

What would life be like without censorship? Though there might be upsides to it, such as more freedom of speech, it could also cause some problems. Not only would we be exposing children to many horrors of the world, we also would be doing nothing to prevent offensive and oppressive content in the media. Therefore, some censorship is necessary for all people; however, in most cases, we should be allowed access to most information in society.

The Importance Of Censorship

Children’s innocence must be protected by censorship. The debate on whether censorship is beneficial to society often compiles to a few main reasons. Subjects like freedom of speech, women’s rights, and children’s innocence is brought into question when discussing censorship. It is an important debate because what is censored influences societal beliefs of what is right and wrong. It decides what truths are revealed publicly. Some people think censorship is beneficial because it supposedly protects children, but it is actually useless because it underestimates children’s tolerance, witholds information, oversexualizes women, and sugarcoats the truth.

Pros And Cons Of Censorship On Society

From books to the internet, it is very easy to get any information quickly. Although this may be true you can’t find everything you may be looking for, there are things out there that are censored. Censorship is the restriction of certain information to one or a group of people, from others who think it’s dangerous. Censorship can be used in beneficial ways to protect people, but it is often misused to harm people long-term. Here is some information about some negative impacts of censorship. Why is censorship bad if used for a prolonged period of time?

Essay On Censorship In America

Censorship is a very controversial issue in the world with many different types and has many positive and negative effects on us. Censorship is looked at by many as a necessity in people’s lives while others believing it to be a bane that annoys and bothers them. The advocates to censorship believe that it protects and keeps our youth safe from corruption that could affect them in negative ways. People who hate censorship believe it to be a burden on us and keep us from getting what we need sometimes. Different types of censorship such as pornographic censorship have positive effects like keeping the youth safe from corruption by some materials, but it also has negative effects like limiting the amount of materials that people can use for things like research.

Essay about The Pros and Cons of Censorship

Remember the day when you could say anything you wanted without worrying about someone telling you, “That’s not correct”or “don’t say that.” Yes? Everybody does. Many long to live in that era once more; they long to be able to speak their mind in public without anyone thinking they are weird or crazy. Lately it seems as though you have to retain your thoughts inside your mind and not say anything. Many college campuses and websites have started to establish rules which prevent people from saying what’s on their mind and writing or saying something which may harm others.

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• Freedom of speech
• Pornography
• Internet censorship

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Home Essay Samples Social Issues Internet Censorship

Internet Censorship: an In-Depth Look on the Pros and Cons

Table of contents, introduction, national security, criminal activities, human trafficking activities, online harassment, the economic impact of online communities, bibliography.

• Mu-Fen Chin, Chou, Su, Yang, & Yin, 2013, Method and system for Internet Censorship, US Patent 8,516,536 B2.
• Bieda, D and Halawi, L 2015, ‘Cyberspace: A Venue for Terrorism’, Issues in Information Systems, vol. 16, no. 3, p. 37.
• Akdeniz, Y 1997, ‘Governance of Pornography and Child Pornography on the Global Internet: A Multi-Layered Approach ‘, Law and the Internet: regulating Cyberspace, viewed 10 August 2019, .
• APH Senate Committee Report Completed Inquiries 1996, CHAPTER 3: Paedophile Networks in Australia - Extent and Activities, viewed 16 August 2019,
• Australian Human Rights Commission 2013, 5 Current issues of ‘Internet censorship’: bullying, discrimination, harassment and freedom of expression, viewed 29 July 2019,
• Akdeniz, Y 1997, 'The Regulation of Pornography and Child Pornography on the Internet', Journal of Criminal Justice Studies, p. 27.
• Ellison, L, & Akdeniz, Y, 1998, 'Cyber-stalking: the Regulation of Harassment on the Internet', Criminal Law Review, para. 4.
• Australian Human Rights Commission 2012, working without fear: Results of the Sexual Harassment National Telephone Survey, viewed 05 August 2019,
• Moses, A , & Lowe, A 2012, ' Contents removed from racist Facebook page', The Sydney Herald, 9 August, viewed 10 August 2019, .
• Stevenson, C 2007, 'Breaching the Great Firewall: China’s Internet Censorship and the Quest for Freedom of Expression in a Connected World', Boston College International & Comparative Law Review, vol. 30, no.2, p. 558
• Xu, B 2014, Media Censorship in China, Council on Foreign Relation, p.3
• Kalathil, S 2010, ' Internet Freedom: A Background Paper ', Toward a Single global digital economy, pp. 69-70.
• Raveendran, N., & Leberknight, C., 2018, Internet Censorship and Economic Impacts: A Case Study of Internet Outages in India, Completed Research, IBISWorld, viewed 6 August 2018, Internet Outage and Economic Impacts.
• Sussman, L 2000, ' Censor dot gov: the Internet and press freedom 2000', Journal of Government Information, vol. 27, no.3, p. 2.
• Zittrain, J & Palfrey, J 2007, Access Denied: The Practice and Policy of Global Internet Filtering, Oxford Internet Institute, UK.
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How Do You Feel About Censored Music?

Do you ever listen to songs with lyrics that are explicit, suggestive or violent? Do your parents have rules about what you can and can’t listen to?

By Nicole Daniels

Students in U.S. high schools can get free digital access to The New York Times until Sept. 1, 2021.

What kind of music do you listen to? Do you ever listen to songs with lyrics that are explicit, suggestive or violent? Do you prefer the clean versions of these songs or the unedited ones? Why?

In “ Cardi B’s ‘WAP’ Proves Music’s Dirty Secret: Censorship Is Good Business ,” Ben Sisario writes about the hit single and its explicit themes:

Doc Wynter still remembers the first time he heard “WAP.” A top radio programmer for decades, Wynter has come across countless explicit rap tracks and “blue” R&B songs that required nips and tucks before they could be played on-air. But even Wynter, the head of hip-hop and R&B programming for the broadcasting giant iHeartMedia, was taken aback by “WAP,” Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s brazenly graphic anthem of lubrication, when he was given a preview before the song’s release in August. “It hits you at the very beginning — like, whoa! — and then it just keeps on going and going and going ,” Wynter said, still marveling at the song’s barrage of suggestive imagery. “Thank God we have systems in place,” he recalled thinking, “that prevented that record from hitting the airwaves.” Of course, “WAP” did hit the airwaves, and the streaming services, in a big way. One of the year’s most inescapable hits, it held No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for four weeks and drew 1.1 billion clicks on streaming platforms. An instant social media phenomenon, the song spawned remixes and memes galore, including a subgenre of outraged-slash-titillated parental reaction videos . To an extent not seen in years, “WAP” also became something of a political lightning rod, decried by pearl-clutching commentators like Ben Shapiro , who saw the song as a “really, really, really, really, really vulgar” embodiment of liberal hypocrisy. (Cardi B has been a vocal supporter of Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders.) Yet despite the song’s uninhibited raunch, its popularity was partly earned from one of the music industry’s oldest bugaboos: self-censorship. Before “WAP” could be played on the radio, its most explicit verbiage was pruned by Cardi B’s engineers. Wynter recalled that the ostensibly sanitized copy first offered by Cardi B’s label, Atlantic — the “clean” version of the song, in industry jargon — was still too racy for broadcast, leading Wynter to ask for nine additional, last-minute edits.

Mr. Sisario continues, explaining that censorship has a long history in the music industry:

Self-censorship was present at the beginning of rock ’n’ roll: Little Richard famously snipped “good booty” from the original lyrics to “Tutti Frutti.” But its current role in the music industry dates to 1985. That was when Tipper Gore, who was married to Al Gore, then a United States Senator from Tennessee, helped start the crusading Parents Music Resource Center after being scandalized by a Prince song. Her group called for warning stickers on albums, a suggestion echoed during a Senate committee hearing the same year, which stirred fears of encroachment on musicians’ First Amendment rights. “If it looks like censorship and it smells like censorship,” Frank Zappa said at the time, “it is censorship.” Then as now, race played a complex role. Black art has always been policed aggressively, particularly in popular music genres — a continuum that stretches from jazz to rock to hip-hop. But in the 1980s, rock and metal came under fire as well, and seemingly anything on the radio was a potential target. In one of the most surreal moments of the 1985 Senate hearings, John Denver defended his song “Rocky Mountain High” against accusations that it glorified drug abuse. Record companies soon agreed to affix a “ parental advisory ” sticker on albums that they — not an outside regulator — deemed to include “strong language or depictions of violence, sex or substance abuse.”

Today, the pressure for clean versions of songs and albums has waned, but in some ways, Mr. Sisario writes, they are still important:

For artists who do not self-censor, the risk may simply be invisibility. Music’s consumer landscape is now rife with family streaming plans and parental content-filtering. For customers who set their devices to weed out explicit material, Apple and Amazon automatically substitute edited versions of songs when they are available, and skip them altogether when they aren’t. Most of the time, virtually every track on Spotify’s powerhouse “Rap Caviar” playlist is marked explicit; for a tween on a content leash, it can take three or four arduous clicks to see if a clean alternative is available. Among radio programmers, streaming curators and record executives, the standard scenario to explain the need for clean versions is that of a bystander child: Would an adult object if they heard a particular song with their child in the car, or in earshot of a smart speaker?

Students, read the entire article , then tell us:

How do you feel about censored music? Do you generally prefer the clean or unedited versions of your favorite songs? Why? Do you think there is any content that is too explicit or inappropriate?

How much do your parents or other adults in your life care about what music you listen to? Do they have rules about the types of songs you can and cannot listen to? Do you have parental restrictions on any of your music streaming services? How do you feel about parents controlling teenagers’ music choices?

Who do you think should make decisions about what lyrics and language are appropriate for children and teenagers? Parents? Musicians? Music executives? Radio stations? Why?

Some musicians object on principle to the censoring of their work; others believe that clean versions of their songs are necessary. What do you think? Where do you draw the line between artistic expression and censoring profane and suggestive lyrics or themes? In your opinion, is one of those things more important than the other?

In your experience, how do race, gender and sexuality affect the way that people censor music? Do you notice that the people in your life are more offended by certain lyrics and artists, but not others? How much of a role do you think identity plays in music censorship regulations?

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Nicole Daniels joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2019 after working in museum education, curriculum writing and bilingual education. More about Nicole Daniels

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Essay On Pros And Cons Of Media Censorship

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Media , Censorship , Expression , United Nations , Information , People , Democracy , Law

Words: 1400

Published: 03/30/2023

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[City and State]

Introduction

The media, which collectively refer to various forms of mass communication, are considered as a major source of public information. Their primary interests lie on gathering, evaluating, and distributing facts, which are of relevance to human society (Shoemaker & Reese, 1996, 15). There are, however, instances wherein the media is seen as an insinuator of conflict. Such conflict may arise when media and the information they possess has a potential to cause social unrest; scenarios wherein telling the truth will cause more harm than good. An unregulated mass media have two opposing sides; one that is detrimental to society and one that promotes the common good. In order to eliminate or, at least, minimize the possibility of having to deal with an unregulated mass media, most government impose media censorship. Media censorship, however, creates a conflict with freedom of expression, a universal concept that is internationally recognized as a basic human right (UNESCO, 2008, 5). Despite popular objection, most countries observe media censorship at some extent. This paper aims to present the primary arguments of those who object media regulation as well as the arguments of those who believe that mass media should be regulated or censored.

Major Arguments of Proponents of Unregulated Media

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) cite three major justifications against media censorship. These are the freedom of expression; the access to information and the empowerment of the people (UNESCO, 2008, 5). People who object to media censorship or regulation believes that people have an inherent right to express themselves. Freedom of expression is a universal right as recognized in Article 19 of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights (UNESCO, 2008, 5). Such right, however, can only be imposed depending on the prevailing laws of a country. There are some human rights, for instance, that are recognized by the international institutions, but are not observed in certain countries, primarily because their laws do not recognize the existence of such rights and freedom of expression is an example of such right. In the United States, however, freedom of expression is protected under the First Amendment, which guarantees certain rights to citizens, including the freedom of speech and the press. This constitutional amendment remains as a major basis of objection to media regulation, particularly in the U.S. Aside from legislations that prohibit the suppression of the media, some people believe that holding back information from the public is a violation in itself. For those who are against media censorship, the suppression of information from the media is also tantamount to the impairment of their right to be well-informed (UNESCO, 2008, 10). Lastly, a well-informed citizenry is believed to be more empowered. According to Abdul Waheed Khan, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, access to accurate, fair and unbiased information “allows citizens to gain control over their own lives, to work cooperatively and to provide direction to their leaders” (UNESCO, 2008, 7).

Major Arguments Behind Media Censorship

Censorship is generally understood as “the official suppression or prohibition of forms of expression” (Moore, 2013, 46). Other scholars define it as the “policy of restricting the public expression of ideas, opinions, conceptions and impulses,” which governing authorities believe has the capacity to destroy the social, political and moral order of society (Bourke, 1956, 57). Governing authorities may include government, religious, education or private authorities who considers themselves as having the moral obligation to protect society from detrimental media expressions. There are many reasons why authorities regulate freedom of expression and impose media restrictions and censorship. Among the major reasons for media censorship are founded on protection of minors, security, moral integrity and in controlling hate and prejudice. Regulating authorities believe that they have the moral obligation to protect minors and society, in general, from media exploitation (Bourke, 1956, 57). Some societies have cultural sensitivities, which is often used to justify the suppression of media expressions. Sex and violence are often considered as taboo topics and are censored before an expression is published. Information that may endanger the lives of individuals and society are also subject to censorship. Proponents of media regulation or censorship, believes that justifications, such as freedom of expression, access to information and empowerment of the people can only prosper in an ideal society. Unfortunately, these justifications are often exploited and manipulated, sometimes by media outlets themselves, in order to advance their vested personal interests. In the past, there many instances wherein the media was used as a manipulative tool. Propagandists, for instance, use media in order to influence public opinion to further their personal interests. Examples of such can be easily observed during the course of war wherein the warring factions use propaganda to gain public support. One of the most salient examples wherein media was used to influence public opinion was during the Nazi regime wherein the Nazis used their control over radio and media outlets in order to further their political interests as well as encourage people to hate the Jews. As observed by scholars, their heavy radio propaganda “combined with other propaganda tools, such as Hitler’s speeches,” polarized Germany and paved the way for Nazi political domination and the Holocaust (Adena, Enikolopov, Petrova, Santarosa, & Zhuravskaya, 2013, 1). The Rwanda massacre is also an example of how unregulated media can be used to insinuate hate and racial discrimination. According to one observer, the media was instrumental in the extermination of the Tutsis by propagating hate messages and dehumanizing propaganda (Thompson, n.d., 84).

Media can be used to promote positive social outcomes. The extensive media criticism of unsafe and unhealthy practices of individuals and corporate entities, for instance, has brought significant public awareness and change. With the use of media, people are made aware of how other people and corporate entities conduct themselves towards the community and their environment. Anti-smoking campaigns, anti-pollution campaigns and anti-human rights violation campaigns are just a few examples of how media can be utilized as an environmental and human rights watchdog, making them an effective deterrent and partner for social integrity and change. However, the media can also destroy the moral fabric of society with violence and sexual obscenity. Media can also influence public opinion that may encourage political and social disorder. In conclusion, it can be deduced that unregulated media can be considered as a double edged sword. On one hand, it may serve as deterrence towards abusive individuals and groups, while on the other hand, it can become detrimental to the social, political and moral order of society.

Bibliography

Adena, M., Enikolopov, R., Petrova, M., Santarosa, V., & Zhuravskaya, E. 2013. Radio and the rise of Nazis in pre-war Germany. [Online] March 2013. Available at: https://www.princeton.edu/csdp/events/Petrova04042013/Petrova04042013.pdf. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] Bourke, Vernon. 1956. Moral Problems Related to Censoring the Media of Mass Communications. [Online] 1956. Available at: http://scholarship.law.marquette.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3030&context=mulr. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] Cornell University Law School. n.d.. First Amendment. [Online] n.d. Available at: https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/first_amendment. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] Moore, Nicole. 2013. Censorship Is . [Online] 2013. Available at: http://www.australianhumanitiesreview.org/archive/Issue-May-2013/AHR54_3_Moore.pdf. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] Shoemaker, P., & Reese, S. 1996. Theories of Influences on Mass Media Content. [Online] 1996. Available at: https://journalism.utexas.edu/sites/journalism.utexas.edu/files/attachments/reese/mediating-the-message.pdf. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] Thompson, A. n.d.. The Media and the Rwanda Genocide. [Online] n.d. Available at: http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=nJT54Oe2D08C&pg=PA81&lpg=PA81&dq=Rwanda+literacy+rate+before+genocide&source=bl&ots=AIJ9aDAgvb&sig=xfL_SBXt3YJD7GjCFikQBsBtQSc&hl=en&sa=X&ei=FY3sUvSqLoubkwXzyIGoBg&ved=0CDQQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=Rwanda%20literacy%20rate%20. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016] UNESCO. 2008. Freedom of Expression, Access to Information and Empowerment of People. [Online] 2008. Available at: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0018/001803/180312e.pdf. [Accessed 17 Aug. 2016]

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The Pros And Cons Of Censorship

Show More To allow censorship of any kind is absolutely unacceptable no matter the circumstances. Censorship under the guise of helping is in fact nothing but harmful as it withholds information that could be vital from citizens. Censorship allows for those that hold power and wish to keep holding on to that power to essentially brainwash the populace for his own devious goals. Censorship is even more dangerous when it is disguised with the words only during political crisis. Who would decide what a political crisis is, censorship can lead a country to its doom, and history has shown us how dangerous it is. Censorship is extremely dangerous because it is unknown who it would be that decides what is censored. That person could be working to further their …show more content… But on August 9th there were about 80,000 casualties. Instead of warning the public about these bombs the U.S. had the Japanese government kept it secret so when the pamphlets fell down on Nagasaki no one heeded them. If the Japanese government warned the populace than 40,000 lives would have been saved and another 40,000+ would have been spared the pain of surviving a nuclear blast. While it is possible to be able to find excellent examples in both literature and the modern world, history is where all the truly great examples lay. History is the most important tool for any person to use to determine the path that they wish for their country to take. If any country and it’s people ignore history, then their country shall end up walking the path of doom. Anyone can look into the past and see what was wrong to do and not do it in the future, this would be easily applicable to the politics and inner workings of a country. There are many tragedies that no sane person wants to happen for their country. One of the most horrid examples of one such tragedy would be Stalin’s rule over Russia. Stalin held an iron grip upon his country for his entire life because he used many …show more content… It even went so far that when he died he had killed more than a couple million people(#2 & 3). Perhaps a less vivid example would be Richard Nixon at Watergate. Richard Nixon’s attempt at viewing the opposing political parties campaign plan without their knowledge shows quite a bit about his character(#5). Such a scandal could be labeled as a political crisis and be kept from the public's knowledge if this was allowed and as such the U.S. would have no clue about it. However, that would then lead to the U.S. citizens having complete trust in Richard Nixon and that lack of knowledge, that censored piece of information could very well become the first step towards the United States first dictator. Censorship in the media, especially during political crisis, is dangerous and should not be allowed. Who or what would be determining what gets censored and censorship in any country is dangerous as shown in history are all factors that show the dangers of censorship. To allow censorship, under any circumstances, is not only foolish but

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Censorship Essay

The pros and cons of censorship.

Over the years, there has been an ongoing debate about whether or not censorship is an acceptable government practice. The issue at times, has become so controversial that it has literally divided the nation into several different groups. Those who are for it base their arguments on the belief that with censorship there is balance and a clear understanding of proper language both written and spoken while those who are opposed claim that if permitted, the people lose their freedom of speech.

Regardless of what side of the issue you may fall on, censorship hits to the very heart of humanity. It attempts to control the very thing that separates us from all of the creations on earth. The ability to communicate at a level that goes deeper than any other form of communication is at the heart of every television program we watch, every play or movie we see, and even every book or magazine we pick up to read.

Still, many people do not fully understand what censorship actually means. They often conclude that it is a means of those in authority attempting to curtail the people’s freedom of expression, however the issue goes much deeper than that.

The Moral Code

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Benefits of Censorship

It is also censorship that keeps people from plagiarizing another person’s work or from revealing private details and information about other people. In these cases, the information that secures your credit and private matters can remain relatively secure. It also keeps people from slandering or even libeling people who think and believe different from someone else. Therefore, some people may choose to dislike one person for whatever reason but because of censorship they are not permitted to spread lies about someone who may be different from them. (1)

This protects various cultures from racism, feminism, or any other form of discrimination. And it protects the public by preventing them from making any sort of claim on their products that may not be entirely true.

In fact, some benefits of censorship we don’t readily see because it is not at the very forefront of everything they need to know. It is often hidden, and at times pointed out as sinister in its purpose. (2)

The Ugly Side of Censorship

While there are definitely some benefits to censorship, it does have its own drawbacks and flaws. No decision is perfect but when censorship is applied with the wrong motives, it can have a very negative effect on everyone involved. For example, when there is a definite compromise to the freedom of the press and speech, it may intrude on all areas of creativity and in the wrong hands it can easily be misused.

The bottom line is that censorship can cut two ways. While many of us are quick to cry out that censorship is not appropriate in a progressive society, few will realize that every day, part of who they have become and their course in life has been the direct result of censorship. So, while you may be thinking about all of the things there are that censorship can put limits on, it pays for all of us to learn and realize how we have benefited over the years by having this very controversial issue in place.

References: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/pros-and-cons-of-censorship.html http://futureofworking.com/11-biggest-pros-and-cons-of-censorship/

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Pros And Cons Of Censorship Essay

Censorship ‘ Is censorship a good or bad idea?’ Censorship is all about deciding on what people can see and deciding on what people can view. Censorship is the suppression of speech or other public communication, which may be considered objectionable, harmful, sensitive or inconvenient as determined by the government, media outlet or controlling body. It clocks out content which mainly is harmful to people and it aims to protect children and vulnerable people by block and removing content from media to limit and restrict what they can see. The government can retain people from seeing content in the media by removing it and only letting the public see what the government want them to see. Censorship can happen on a massive level like that …show more content…

Evidently what my point is coming to that in my opinion the main aspect to Censorship is to protect children to content that they should not be exposed to at such a young age. Censorship in some circumstances is not needed. In one circumstance books have been banned because they have been too inappropriate. For example Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs, this book was banned because it contained obscene language and controversial matters. I do not think this booked should have banned in this case. It’s an adult book in which it’s aimed at adult. If an adult wants to read the book and they have no problem with what the book contains then it should be their decision whether to read it or not. An adult should be able to make their own decisions on whether they want to read that type of material. Some people like to read controversial material for example 50 shades of Grey is a very popular book which has been a best seller in the UK. This book is a very controversial book and explores sex and S&M. People may see this as having an explicit nature. So why has Naked Lunch been banned and 50 shades hasn’t? In this circumstanced I think it is wrong that books are banned. It shouldn’t of been published in the first place and the publishers should have looked into the

The Use Of Censorship In Ray Bradbury's Books

Deciding on who makes the rules for censorship is tricky though. Should the power be in the people or in the government? Censorship should be permitted in limited cases… only a local government - preferably a school district - should be in charge with decisions to censor” (Wilson 6). While censorship is needed, people such as parents should decide how much or how little their child is censored such as what movies they watch or what internet sites they can go on. In Fahrenheit 451, the government controls all. As Bradbury notes in his work, “And then the government, seeing how advantageous it was to have people reading about only passionate lips and the fist in stomach, circled the situation with your fire-eaters” (Bradbury 85). With censorship, the government could go too far, which is why it is a good idea to let every state or county create their own rules and guidelines for censorship. As kids get older, censorship should be slightly let up.They should be old enough to make their own decisions. Wilson states,“Much of the debate over censorship revolves around protection children… School district trustees much balance their responsibility to ensure everyone is granted access to the best education… however, some materials are inappropriate for small children” (Wilson 6). Censorship should be used to protect children. Not just from websites, but websites with people that could harm them on it. Yet there comes an age

Censorship and Book Banning

Censorship is a concept with several different meanings. To each individual censorship has its own meaning. Is it a violation of our rights or is it a protection for our well being? Censorship in the generic sense refers to the suppression of information, ideas, or opinions. It occurs in all forms of communication from technological media to print media. Each society, culture, or individual's belief is violated by the codes of censorship that our society instills.

Persuasive Essay Of Banning Books

We live in an overprotective society, where people try to control other people’s lives from things that they find explicit. Many parents believe that by sheltering their kids from offensive things it will keep them safe. But, trying to live life as if there is always sunshine and no rain turns out to be a big disappointment. The banning of books has a negative effect on children and adults alike, as it can shelter children from real life situations, and revokes the rights of the people. Although people believe in banning books that contain vulgar language and profanity to help their children, it can actually hurt the child and can be considered unconstitutional.

Censorship in America

Freedom of speech and expression is one of the most important rights that we have in this country. Our forefathers knew this and acknowledged this in our great constitution which protects our rights as citizens in America. Censorship is a complete contradiction to this concept that has helped make America the greatest country in the world. If we do not stand up for our rights for free speech, someday it may be taken away all together. Everyday there are people out there trying to ban and censor things from Americans, things that as an American you have the right to view. Censorship must be stopped at all costs.

Censorship in American Literature

Censorship has been a big part of the world’s history and especially America’s history. One of the most quoted amendments to the United States constitution is the first amendment; “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press ...” This amendment guaranteeing free speech, press, and religion is still heavily debated and contested today. Censorship, as a challenge to free speech and press has been allowed many times and has been heavily debated itself. Many people censor for many different reasons and in many different forms. Censorship itself is not always a bad thing and has in some cases been used for protection of the general population.

America Needs Media Censorship

Censorship is a controversial word that has been with us since who knows when. Ancient dictators would burn books because they didn't like them and force people to believe what they did. The question I ask myself, though, is if censorship in Libraries and schools is justified. My answer is yes, and that is what I will try to convince you.

J.D. Salinger's A Catcher in the Rye

...ain groups consider books to be immoral does not mean they need to be pulled from the shelves. Censoring is acceptable for the youth, but there is an age when we all grow up and are able to handle books with explicit content.

The Debate of Censorship

When regulating the content that someone sees or hears, it is the sole responsibility of the individual to block harmful or offensive content from themselves or their children. In an article by Dan Gutman, a children’s book author, he states that if a piece of literature is banned from a school library, it is not only blocke...

Persuasive Essay On Internet Censorship

Internet is a powerful tool that allows users to collaborate and interact with others all over the world conveniently and relatively safely. It has allowed education and trade to be accessed easily and quickly, but all these benefits do not come without very taxing costs. This is especially true when dealing with the likes of the Internet. Countries in the European Union and Asia have realized this and have taken action against the threat of net neutrality to protect their citizens, even at the cost of online privacy. Internet censorship is required to protect us from our opinions and vices. Every country should adopt Internet censorship and regulation since it improves society by reducing pornography, racism/prejudice, and online identity theft.

Censorship In Schools Essay

The most debatable and controversial form of censorship today is the banning of books in school libraries. Banning books that educate students is wrong and selfish. Censorship of books in school libraries is neither uncommon nor an issue of the past. Books with artistic and cultural worth are still challenged constantly by those who want to control what others read. The roots of bigotry and illiteracy that fuel efforts to censor books and free expression are unacceptable and unconditional. Censoring school books in libraries can often lead to censorship of our basic freedoms guaranteed in the First Amendment. In some cases, a minority ends up dictating the majority in censorship cases. To be told what is permissible reading material and what is not is a direct violation of the First Amendment of the Constitution.

The Controversy Around Banning Books

The subject of censorship is a very controversial one, especially the banning of books. Many people believe they must protect themselves and others from the "evils" of many classic books and works of art because they can be deemed "indecent" in one way or another. Many believe that this is absurd and censorship in its current form is a violation of our First Amendment right to free speech. Personally, I align myself with the latter, however I do feel there are occasions where censorship is justifiable.

Negative Essay: Why Censorship Is Harmful To Society

Censorship is detrimental to society. People can’t learn from their mistakes if we hide them. People can’t decide the best option if we say there are no options. People can’t understand each other if they don’t know what anyone is thinking. People can’t mature when they are “protected” from mean words. People can’t be themselves when they are being censored.

The Negative Impact of Media Censorship

Tackling censorship is much more important than it appears to be at the surface; taking down censorship would help preserve the expression of thought. It would help preserve the right to listen to the unaltered forms of everything. Most importantly, it would help preserve the rapidly weakening basic right of speech. Censorship has always altered the lives of many people, whether they know it or not. People are constantly exposed to the censored version of entertainment.

Is Censorship Justified?

Hence, censorship is essential in society to eliminate discrimination on basis of race and gender, protect children, maintain stability and restore what censor sees as lost moral values. Censorship occurs when expressive materials like books, magazines, movies, videos, music or works of art are restricted to particular audiences based on their age or other characteristics. http://www.ala.org/oif/intellectualfreedeomandcensorship.html) Censorship is not a recent development. It wasn’t imposed properly or there weren’t strict regulations before.

The Positive Effects Of Censorship And Its Effect On Society

Censorship is blocking or hiding something that is considered unacceptable to the public eye or a group of a certain age. In looking at the effects of censorship on society, it is apparent that it can both be beneficial and harmful. Censorship is seen to be beneficial through preventing dangerous people from viewing government documents and preventing children from viewing inappropriate content. Censorship can be harmful when it comes to taking away rights declared in the Constitution and setting unequal standards for men and women. These examples show how effects censorship has on society can be both good and bad. Looking at facts and credible opinions is a way to truly see how censorship has negative and positive effects.

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