Knowra Self-censorship Self-censorship Self-censorship is the deliberate withholding or alteration of one’s own expression, often in anticipation of social, political, or institutional consequences.
Spiral of silence : A theory that people who perceive their opinions as unpopular may withhold them, making the apparent majority seem stronger. It explains how fear of isolation can make private restraint reinforce public silence.
Newsroom censorship : The suppression or alteration of news content by editors, owners, governments, or other powerful actors. Journalists may preempt editorial or political pressure by excluding material before publication.
Censorship : The suppression or restriction of expression by an authority or other controlling actor. Unlike direct censorship, self-censorship is carried out by the speaker, often in anticipation of control.
Public sphere : The arena of social life in which people discuss matters of common concern and form public opinion. When people withhold views, public debate can misrepresent the range of private opinions.
Chilling effect : The deterrence of lawful expression or conduct by fear of legal or other penalties. Self-censorship is one way people respond to the chilling effects of anticipated punishment.
Academic freedom : The freedom of scholars to teach, research, and publish without undue interference. Institutional threats to academic freedom can prompt researchers to avoid contentious questions or findings.
Freedom of speech : The principle that people should be able to express ideas without undue government restriction. Its protections can reduce state coercion, though they do not remove every social or institutional pressure.
Democratic backsliding : The gradual weakening of democratic institutions, rights, and constraints on political power. Self-censorship can help normalize shrinking freedoms by making opposition less visible.
Preference falsification : The public misrepresentation of private preferences under social or political pressure. It distinguishes concealing a view from changing what one says to appear compliant.
Internet censorship : The control or suppression of online information and communication by governments, companies, or other authorities. Surveillance and content restrictions can lead users to limit what they post or search.
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