Censorship

Definition

Censorship is the suppression or prohibition of speech, public communication, or other information that may be considered objectionable, harmful, sensitive, or inconvenient by authorities or controlling bodies. It often raises important questions about freedom of expression and the role of media in society. Understanding censorship helps to analyze the tension between protecting societal norms and preserving individual rights, especially in the context of film, media, and journalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During Hollywood's Golden Age, strict censorship laws like the Hays Code regulated film content, shaping narratives to align with societal morals.
2. Independent media often faces censorship from both governmental and corporate entities, hindering diverse voices and perspectives from being heard.
3. Net neutrality debates touch on censorship as they involve discussions about internet service providers potentially limiting access to certain viewpoints or content.
4. Investigative journalism can be a target of censorship when powerful individuals or organizations seek to suppress unwanted information that could damage their reputation.
5. Censorship is not only a legal issue but also a cultural one, reflecting societal values and fears about what information should be available to the public.

Review Questions

• How did censorship impact the film industry during Hollywood's Golden Age, particularly in relation to the Hays Code?
  • Censorship during Hollywood's Golden Age was heavily influenced by the Hays Code, which enforced strict guidelines on what could be depicted in films. This led filmmakers to alter their scripts and narratives to avoid penalties, resulting in sanitized portrayals that conformed to conservative societal norms. The restrictions imposed by the code ultimately shaped the themes and messages conveyed through film during this era, limiting creative expression.
• What are the implications of censorship on independent media and how does it affect the diversity of voices in society?
  • Censorship has profound implications for independent media as it restricts the ability of alternative voices to share their perspectives. When governmental or corporate pressures lead to censorship, it creates an environment where only mainstream viewpoints are amplified while marginalized voices are silenced. This lack of diversity can hinder public discourse and prevent important social issues from being addressed, ultimately undermining democracy and informed citizenry.
• Evaluate the relationship between censorship and digital media policy, particularly regarding net neutrality and freedom of expression online.
  • The relationship between censorship and digital media policy is critical, especially with net neutrality at play. If internet service providers are allowed to prioritize certain types of content over others, it raises concerns about who controls access to information. This potential for selective visibility can lead to forms of censorship that limit freedom of expression online. Evaluating this relationship helps understand how policies can either protect or threaten democratic discourse in the digital age.

Related terms

Freedom of Speech: The right to express one's opinions and ideas without fear of government retaliation or censorship.

Propaganda: Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a particular political cause or point of view.

Self-Censorship: The act of censoring one's own work or opinions due to perceived societal norms or potential backlash.