For the longest time I've been trying to determine my stance on censorship. During the class presentation today, I saw a statement in the slide show that spoke to me in such a tremendous way that I scribbled it down frivolously so as to write about it in today's post.
The statement was:
"Enlightened societies comes from individual freedom of behavior and expression."
This statement sums up my feelings on censorship, and I finally can say I have stopped my censorship stance see-saw. I can say with certainty that I agree with this statement, and that I believe censorship is a path to eliminating enlightened societies.
Censorship, in my opinion, is a tragedy to society. It's a means of encouraging others to choose what's better for society. Who's to say that the government really knows what is good for people and that people don't deserve to choose what's good for themselves? Who's to say that the upper class know what's better for society? Do they really have a higher cultural taste?
I have to argue that the best education comes from learning for yourself. The best sense of identity comes from understanding your own behaviors and expressions. Understanding is a personal milestone. Censorship takes away the personal aspect of understanding, and it is a one-way ticket to losing enlightened societies.
Laura, I think it is interesting that you've taken such a strong stance against censorship. I agree with many of the things you said, but I don't know if I agree with a completely hands-off form of censorship.
ReplyDeleteWhat about pornography? And explicit content that has the potential to reach the eyes/ears of children? And cursing on the radio? I believe there are some regulations in place that I actually agree with.
Are there any forms of censorship that you believe actually benefit society?