Towards a Redefinition of Censorship

Author: Freshwater, Helen

Source: Critical Studies, Censorship & Cultural Regulation in the Modern Age. Edited by Beate Müller , pp. 225-245(21)

Publisher: Rodopi

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Abstract:

Any redefinition necessitates an assessment of existing provision. This article analyses contemporary models of censorship and outlines the theoretical antecedents informing the 'new censorship' debate before moving onto a further reorientation of the term. Theorists including Richard Burt, Sue Curry Jansen and Michael Holquist come under consideration in an investigation which highlights the prevalence of theories which maintain that censorship is an omnipresent, structural necessity. The article assesses the influence of Michel Foucault, asking whether the critical preoccupation with constitutive forms of censorship has led to a failure to acknowledge the potential subversion and dysfunction of censorious forces. Whilst defending a strongly inclusive application of the term, 'Towards a Redefinition of Censorship' proposes that we place greater value upon responsiveness to the experience of the censored author or artist. Without such consideration, we risk perpetuating procedures of exclusion.

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2003-10-01

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