Imagine you have a thought that you would like to share to your friends or family. You decide to write out your thoughts on a Facebook post (or Instagram, Twitter, whatever). You type it all out and before posting it, you hesitate. “Will everyone understand what I’m trying to say? Will someone be offended? Will I be cancelled??”
This is the power of self-censorship. Self-censorship is the phenomenon of individuals altering their thoughts, speech, or actions in fear of retaliation or punishment. Typically self-censorship was seen in journalist or media outlets, but self-censorship has been increasing within every day individuals.
Why is this relevant?
As a amateur philosopher, I expect and encourage others to question aspects of life and to try to seek understanding about new concepts. The field of philosophy encompasses so many subgenres that any thoughts on any subject could help someone explore a deeper meaning of life. In my opinion, self-censorship actively hinders the philosophical and spiritual growth of society. How are we able to grow, discuss, and learn from ourselves if we are not allowed to express ourselves fully?
Additionally, my philosophy is entwined in my political stance. I believe everyone should have a voice (even those voices I don’t agree with)! How can a society be fully democratic if the presiding government is actively suppressing voices? These voices are being silenced are not just from journalists and media outlets, but normal civilians as well.
“Authoritarian incumbents often enact repressive laws to prohibit any acts or expressions that might undermine their rule.”
According to a research article which studied the affects of self-censorship during the authoritarian onset in Hong Kong, citizens were more likely to self-censor because the cost of the dissent is higher in this regimes. I am quite lucky enough to not live in an authoritarian ruled government, however, I do see vestiges of self-censorship being used to control people in the United States. As another research articles states in their conclusion, “when people begin to silence themselves preemptively, before any punishment occurs, it becomes a powerful tool for control”. I believe that once we as a society realize that our voice matters and we should never stop speaking up against what we believe is wrong, even if it is sanctioned by the government.
Just to be clear, practicing social filters in conversation is completely fine! I understand that there are things we may not want to share with certain family members, friends, or coworkers. That is not the same as self-censorship.
With self-censorship, there is a specific negative consequence to speaking your mind. Like if you think you might lose your job or be put on some government watch list. If you think you shouldn’t speak you mind for fear of serious retaliation, that is self-censorship.
How can we mitigate it?
Start speaking your mind! I know that it’s hard nowadays to really speak your truth. Even I hold back on things if I know the other person won’t be receptive or will be harder to explain to those that are not as knowledgeable about certain topics. I get it. It’s easier in certain social situations to be quiet. I keep quiet more often than not because I just want a conversation to be over if I’m being honest. But I also have this platform where I am able to express my thoughts quite freely.
We all need to use our voices. Nature thrives on diversity and so do manmade societies. Even if you think that your thoughts or opinions are unique, most likely there is someone else in this world who will agree with you. And hey, if there really isn’t anyone who agrees with you, perhaps you could change someone’s mind?