I’ll Say What I Want… When I Want… And Nobody Is Going To Stop Me!
Within the context of movies, literature or even video games, the term “Censorship” is considered the most controversial word in the English language. It is normally synonymous with negative connotations that an end user simply does not want thrust upon them.
Restriction, control and manipulation are a few words that spring to mind.
However, the taboo subject of censorship remains prevalent to this very day. A “nanny state” protecting it’s children from the harmful effects of viewing the wrong material or reading a piece of text that may cause permanent scarring of the mind. Whether we like it or not, it exists and forms an integral part of the world we live in today.
But is censorship always this constricting shackle imposed upon creativity and limiting freedom of speech and expression… Or sometimes just a necessary evil we all need to respect from a much broader perspective?
Understanding The Concept of Censorship
The official definition of censorship is as follows:
“the suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security.”
I believe a lot has to do with the source of who and where the censorship stems from. Take the following example:
An author pens out his latest novel but due to the subject matter of the book, reaches a part which harbours overtones of anti-behavioural stereotyping. The author feels that leaving that particular paragraph intact may alienate certain demographics of his readers therefore removes the offending material. It's their ideas, their final say. Censorship straight from the place of origin.
In the case of “A Clockwork Orange”, director Stanley Kubrick himself issued a ban on his movie being released in the UK. Reason being there were a spat of “copycat” killings at the time thus he would regularly receive death threats upon him and his family. The media linked his film to the acts of violence. Although his decision was not a popular one for movie-goers within the UK, it was not met with as severe a backlash as if an external governing body had intervened instead.
I’ve found that people are generally more understanding with these types of critical amendments if they didn’t originate from an uninvolved third party. On the contrary, the BBFC or PEGI, inherent want to restrict the creator’s vision of what they wish their target audience to see. It all seems to boil down to the masses not wanting to be controlled and puppeteered by an invisible set of “domineering parents”.
Censoring for The Good of The People
While I’m quite against censoring for the sake of not offending certain limited groups within our society as a whole, there are exceptional circumstances where the outright banning of certain material can be advantageous for the greater good of the people. An popular example includes:
The Anarchists Cookbook – In case you’ve never heard of it, as the title infers, it’s context revolves around the production of items or products deemed highly dangerous and illegal. Tutorials include detailed instructional manuals and ingredients necessary to create home-made bombs, strong intoxicating drugs (such as LSD) and invasive hacking tools.
Upon release, this book was instantly classified as a dangerous threat to the public at large. Australia issued a banning order within days due to not being able to grant it a classification and the UK arrested several people on terrorist charges who were found to be in possession of the book.
My opinion is that there are no redeeming features in this book to warrant it’s continued publication. It serves no other purpose than to endanger the lives of others and cause as much chaos as possible in an ordered and structured society. In this case, I support censorship to the fullest.
This was a publication inciting real world criminal activity and promoting tangible problems for us all. In my mind, very different from a fictional creation born out of the imagination of an individual and marketed for the entertainment of others. From my point of view, there is a clear difference between the two.
The Most Common Reasons for Censorship
When discussing censorship, there are many factors at play when looking at the reasons as to why certain materials were deemed unsuitable for the masses. Here are a few I would rank quite highly:
Time – As humanity progresses throughout different eras, so do our ever-changing perceptions of morals and values, what is considered right or wrong. Gay people were, not too long ago, chastised and even thrown in jail for committing unlawful acts, however today it is a widely accepted type of relationship which even enjoys most of the benefits that heterosexual couples do.
The book “Lady Chatterlady’s Lover” written by D. H. Lawrence chronicles the life of a woman whose sexual frustrations led to affairs with various young men. Published in 1928, the language and subtext used was widely regarded as too provocative and explicit for public viewing. This in turn lead to several countries banning the book and subsequently a high profile court case in the UK involving it’s publisher and the newly introduced “Obscenity law”.
Religion – As controversial a subject matter as you can get, even by today’s standards, religion plays a pivotal role as to what is considered accepted or detrimental material for public consumption. With some more than others, religious turbulence has often led to extreme public outcry. Rewind further back in history and the consequences have even resulted in the death of the accused.
A popular case relating to this type of censorship was “Satanic Verses” by Salman Rushdie. Upon it’s release back in 1988, this book discussed the Prophet Muhammed at great length which included defamation claims, derogatory terminology against him and used explicit language that attacked Islam. This had the unfortunate reaction of Iran’s supreme leader at the time (Ayatollah Khomeini) to issue a “fatwa” against him (an order for him to be killed). Shortly afterwards, Salman Rushdie's editor (Hitoshi Igarashi) was stabbed to death, therefore forcing Salman himself to go into hiding. Even after all these years, he still lives in fear for his life and maintains a very low profile.
Age – We, as adults, can get complacent in what you view as acceptable for children. In that, as we progress through life, we naturally get desensitized to more mature content. Swearing, darker themes and dealing with topics such as death have a very different impact on our young than they would do on us. So, in fact, censorship might actually be a positive thing in this instance. However, all is not so cut-and-dry. There have been grey areas opening room for debate.
You’d be amazed at the amount of children’s books we take for granted today which were banned at some point in our past. From “Alice in Wonderland” to “The Harry Potter Series”, even something so seemingly innocent as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” have been cast under the ever watchful eye of scrutiny.
However, “The Lord of the Flies” by William Golding wins hands down as the book that was the most reviled of all children’s book. The plot centres around a group of children left on a deserted island to fend for themselves, leading to enemy factions being created and ultimately their own deaths. I suppose it’s not surprising that many schools around the world struck it off their library lists. For years afterwards, it was considered a classic never having been read by the generation it was originally intended for. The irony of it all.
A Prisoner Within Our Own Creativity?
Censorship will always exist in some way, shape or form. Across every genre and media art form, we all labour under a specific set of criteria so as not to offend, but engage with our desired audience. Unless of course, you are purposefully looking for the “shock factor”. as your selling point.
It entirely depends on which sectioned demographic of people you are trying to reach out to. Before even beginning any personal project, a list of check-boxes indicating what may or not be classed as acceptable for your proposed subject matter, would be a good place to start. As I'm sure we're all in agreement that the end result should prove a positive one, leading to your improved reach and thus... deserved recognition.
I have a comment on the aspect time:
In your example you show something which in the past was considered unacceptable, but today is no longer deemed to be so.
The inverse has also been hapenning lately, with books from the nineteenth century refering to "niggers" being subject to bans, and even talk of just rewriting them to remove offending passages.
This to me is very harmful. When looking back towards the past, we shouldn't try to paint it more rosy tthan it was. We already have this tendency to overromanticise the good old times without covering up it's uglier bits.
Totally... And another type of censoring which I hate. "Airbrushing" out the bits of history that are not seen as compatible with our modern times. While I understand the offensiveness of such racial terms nowadays (as well as a slew of others), scissoring out the bits we don't like will only lead to historical inaccuracies.
It's good to be able to compare how things were and are now. How we've evolved and times have changed.
Great points, my friend. :)
If it's the truth why not tell things as they are and then there's no need of twisting it into a pretzel trying to make it something else.
Very true, lol. I guess it's just the way the world is going. Going from A to Z to get to B. :)
True. @team101 good point
Hello my friend
Beautiful story
Sometimes we find some phrases such as forbidden to approach or see for adults only such words now put placed just attracted rather than protection
Hey there, @mars9.
:)
Just rename "The Anarchist's Cookbook" to "Patriotic Methods of Defending the Freedom of America" and you're all good.
Filthy sheep shit upon all things. Censorship is 100% bad in my view, no matter what. No matter what it is, no matter how dangerous or taboo, no matter how reviled or hated it is, no matter what politicians or religious nutters say about it, I really don't care.
Human society is transient and crumbles like a deck of cards every ten years. I certainly won't be wasting my time trying to please a herd of human animals.
Information is power, and censoring people, or preventing them access to information will make them weak, stupid, ignorant, and worst of all: Obedient.
I agree mostly with what you say and understand your undiluted passion at living in a censorship free world.
But I still think sometimes, such as in the interest of public order or other such extreme circumstances, it may be the right thing to do. Most people are easily swayed by authoritarian opinions thrust upon them and will follow the overriding consensus. This could possibly lead to societal turmoil if wrongly handled.
Remember, the media are the main culprits when it comes to feeding the masses what "they" want them to believe. Censorship will always exist to some degree and affect us all directly or indirectly.
I don't really think the "interest of the public order" matters though.
How could words change that, unless the words spoke of revolution or new ideas, that people in power wouldn't want said?
Public order isn't something you can touch. It's just the "forest for the trees" of living in a society where the most intelligent animals in the world want to live in houses with electricity, eat good food, and have a fine life.
Information isn't the enemy here. It's those who try to control information, people who exist beyond the realm of personal privacy, and can spy on your internet connection, see your finances, or coerce your children to attend their government run school.
That's how this society really is, and I don't think for a second that the power of censorship will do anything except cause the people who control what's censored to censor whatever they deem bad, or whatever scandal the media is raving about.
It's a fine idea hypothetically, but in practice? I think we all know about the people throughout history that were censored. Best to try to adapt for a world where things aren't censored, rather than trying to censor blockchains and other emerging technologies.
The governing authorities steer the public to adhere to guidelines that stop mass groups going on a chaotic rampage against the establishment. That comes under the law of the land.
Therefore, anarchy and a shaking up of the rule book is fine and dandy, but bringing back my post into context, when it comes to a piece of literature blatantly advocating violence perpetrated against society and endangering the innocent, it stands to reason to fully support the "censoring" of such materials, in an attempt to stop it falling into the wrong pair of hands.
Censorship per se is full of grey areas and divides opinion, as is seen here.
Brilliant post.
It reminds me of something you might see highly recommended on Medium, except you actually get fairly compensated for its value here.
Quick typo note, you say "were" twice in the section where you are talking about Kubrick.
Stay Steeming, and may all your Steem be fire.
They are trying to censor everything these days.
Thanks, buddy! Again, as you can see in the comments section above, quite a divisive subject but one that clearly provokes strong reactions.
Kind and humbling words from you, sir. I think you. Much appreciated.
(p.s. typo fixed!) :)
Good!!!!!
Thanks! :)
The lord of the flies. I loved it. I should read a few of those books that influenced me over again. Ray Bradbury had some orvellian scenarios that I kept circling in my imagination for years. Good post, even though I think every mature society must tolerate an anarchist cookbook. Resteemed.
Defo, bro. The Lord of the Flies was a classic that I happened to read in secret when I was younger, lol! Some incredible memories back then.
And, of course, I respect your views on the cookbook. I love topics that stimulate debate so with something as subjective as the issue of "censorship", they'll be an array of different perspectives, I'm sure.
There's no censorship here though, mate! :)
Thanks for the article ! But I fear if I say more I will be condemned,ridiculed or suppressed...lol... :-)
the only censorship I believe in is self censorship! I believe in free flow of knowledge,and ability to rebel against opposing force..
I have issues with authority deciding what is appropriate for me!
most censorship is from ruling class.or powers that be! it is just a control to keep knowledge from the masses. censorship is like unto laws,the more of it you have the more it is limiting you,the less control and freedom you have..
:-) you are more than welcome to disagree I will not censor your thoughts,instead I encourage an open debate!
namaste
Thanks for the awesome reply!
And why would I disagree with you, lol? You make perfect sense! Nobody likes to be controlled and I mentioned that a few times in my post. I believe most see censorship in a "negative" context that ought to be eradicated once and for all.
But it can also stem from the individual creating that material. Surely they are the overriding authority when it comes to the release of the content they own, right? Censorship comes in many forms. The very subject itself is a grey area but one worthy of discussion.
Thanks again for dropping by, buddy. :)
What authority? ...lol.. the only authority in a free society is self derived!
all else is compulsion! herd! the the warning..choose my own way..lol..
:-)
Not try to run a fowl ,just duck hunting for truth..
like you say consensus says that most of us oppose being limited, restricted .
great subject glad I was not censored! :-)
namaste
Man, censorship is such a touchy subject. On one hand, you want to preserve the artistic integrity, but on the other you want to avoid mass killings or copycat crimes or animosty between groups. It's a hard nut to crack, and it will always have its detractors. All in all, I guess it can be solved if the censors would initiate a dialogue with the creators. If they would be in agreement, then there wouldn't be a need to have unsolicited censorship. It's great you brought this up, my bro!
Hey, my bro!
Man, I really opened a can of worm this time, didn't I! But what you offer is a neat little solution. Communication would be a great start and discussion can be expanded upon from there. I was wondering before I posted this as to the various upcoming responses. To put it mildly, I wasn't disappointed!
Bless, my bro! Thanks for stopping by! Hope preparations are going well your end and look forward to more from you soon. :)
Preparations are tiring, but it's all so worth it. I have almost a year ahead of this, so I'm definitely just enjoying the ride :D
Communiation is key indeed, though with the sheer amount of creators, I do understand how it's hard for the censors to go about this sustainably.
We are in complete agreement, my bro! But otherwise, let me be perfectly clear. Censoring our creative imagining just purely not to offend certain groups based on their opinions and beliefs? Absolute BS. I'll will never, ever agree with that and staunchly oppose such nonsense...
Anyways, bro. I' m so glad everything is working out for you so nicely. One year is plenty of time to plan and formulate the "best day of your life"! My very best to you, man.
Oh yeah, no, that's the worst possible reason to censor. People need to get over themselves and realize that it's not directed as an offense to their belief, that is unless it is a direct assault--now that's a different topic entirely. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and if they want their opinion to be respected, then they better respect other's opinions as well, no matter how contrasting it is to theirs.
You went for it! Taking on controversial subjects like this one is definitely not the quality of a coward. The most reason I appreciate this article is because you are honestly stating your feelings about the matter, particularly in an environment where it is bound to be a bit unpopular.
As for me...I'm conflicted. I understand your point concerning the cookbook, but I have always been a bit anti-censorship to be honest. Wait, I should rephrase that- anti-censorship by 'the powers that be' as you mentioned in the article. I think the largest problem is that there are so many irresponsible people, and in that sense I actually understand why things are censored. Let me explain.
If my son wanted to read the Anarchist's Cookbook (he's nearly fourteen and quite brilliant...I may be biased, haha) I would let him. However, we would have a long conversation about the material. To me, communication is the key to these matters. But unfortunately there are many out there who do not have good communication, who are extremely irresponsible, and because of that I understand the decision for censorship. Sadly. Maybe one day we will evolve to a place where everyone operates with one hundred empathy, where we live under the banner of one rule and only that rule is necessary-- Do No Harm. Until that day...
I love hearing your thoughts, you are definitely diversifying this time around, awesome!
Hey there, beautiful @dreemit!
Lol, yep, I decided to branch out a little and get some "hot" topics going and, of course, the opinions came flooding in... which I do embrace though! It's such a large subject compassing so many different variables that my one article can only cover a fraction of. But I still think highlights some high-profile issues.
Your example is such a great one! Very nicely thought out! If you knew me throughout the years preceding Steemit, you may consider me the most likely candidate for any "anti-censorship" movement, lol. I can't stand being told what I can and can't express (especially given that we're authors that need to wield our creative freedoms as unrestricted as possible).
However, that's just me thinking out aloud from a personal perspective. My view on the "cookbook" is where I see things a little different. Whereas one could blame a book or movie for some mass rampage leading to many killings, the link is vague at best. That's how I see it. My view is the people themselves who perpetrate such acts are not stable in the first place and thus any "random trigger" may be the catalyst for the unfortunate outcome. Be that a book, movie, pamphlet, speaking to the wrong group of people. It's, at best, unfounded guesswork.
However, the "cookbook" getting into the wrong hands is no longer barricaded within the realms of entertainment and fantasy. Just like the London attacks, where terrorists used "everyday" objects against the public, such as knifes or nails, the book provides explicit instructions of how to create these savage weapons using the same household items. That's it's primary purpose. No story, no reasoning within it's pages, just how to instigate chaos and death.
Now, I understand you as a good parent could introduce your son (I'm sure he is brilliant given he has such a great mother, lol!) to literature like this with the guiding hand of due care, to highlight it's possible dangers and context. However, that's our private world. The outside world is a very different place where terrorists, psychopaths and the deluded reside. That book in their hands holds a totally different meaning so the government wishing to kerb production of material like this as a means to stop it spreading, I can understand. If innocent lives can be spared by even one maniac not being able to get their hands on these type of books, I fully support it.
Again, quite a debatable topic and interesting to hear all each other's view nonetheless.
Bless you, @dreemit and look for me down your comments section later day. I've been so busy with my in-laws these past few days but have scheduled a nice run of chapters with a great book called "Revival" later today.
Take care, lovely @dreemit and thanks for stopping by! :)
Everything you need to know:
https://steemit.com/law/@healthiswealth/do-you-know-your-human-rights
Very interesting read. Nice one, @healthiswealth.
If you restreem it you will get money for doing so.
🍁 I just did a new post 🍁
Add a new entry daily to the draw 😜
The best censorship is you
Lol... As I mentioned in the article, that can happen! :)
Hello. Error of transfer.
Oh what a slippery slope it can be and is. It's true that, what once was slippery is now not and vice versa. As to your "Airbrushing" comment of history... if people only knew. Good post.
Great comment by you, buddy.
I think it's fair to say I'm against most forms of censorship like the majority of mainstream thinking, but the whole "rewriting history" argument? Wrong in every sense of the word!
Thanks so much for stopping by, good sir. :)
Great article @ezzy, very well written!
Thank you, pal!
Speaking of censorship, I wonder if this article would have been left to stand or be viewed by others on FakeBook?
Lol, nicely put, @swenger.
YouTube and Facebook are our friends, sir. Let themselves run each other into the ground fast so Steemit can rise from their ashes and reign supreme! :)
@ezzy I love this!!!! There are so many views on censorship! Definitely make sit interesting! :) If you get the chance, can you upvote my newest post where I teach you how to become a millionaire with crypto? :) Thanks! https://steemit.com/money/@parkermorris/become-a-millionaire-in-the-next-5-years-with-these-5-simple-steps
Thanks a lot, pal. :)
Yeah glad that this is only your own fiction. "Censorship will always exist in some way, shape or form." and we need focus on this. I mean can't agree more.Still here is a lot of circumstances .
But still interesting article before bed. Thnks
No problem, mate.
unfortunately it is human nature to judge and it is also human nature to follow others like sheep. these two combined= censorship
Well put, buddy.
Today I would like to share an amazing story I read on steemit you could have a read here is the link from @awriter is a story about evil sprit the write captured this story wonderfully
https://steemit.com/gedwriting/@awriter/the-temple-of-ashes
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