The Conversation Weekly Self-censorship and what drives it
Jun 19, 2025
Daniel Bar-Tal, an Emeritus professor at Tel Aviv University and expert on self-censorship, joins Beth Daly, Executive Editor of The Conversation. They dive into the psychology behind why individuals choose silence over expression, particularly under societal and political pressures. Bar-Tal shares insights on the implications of self-censorship in academic settings and its parallels in authoritarian regimes. The discussion reveals how fears of repercussions can stifle authentic discourse, impacting both academia and broader societal norms.
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Universities Self-Censor for Funding
- Some US universities removed "diversity, equity, and inclusion" language preemptively without legal orders.
- They feared losing federal funding and acted to preserve their mission.
Self-censorship Beyond Orders
- Self-censorship goes beyond formal orders; people obey social expectations without being told.
- This phenomenon is amplified in societies engaged in conflict.
Patriotism Fuels Conflict Obedience
- Societies in conflict cultivate patriotism early to mobilize people for the conflict.
- This socialization emphasizes the conflict’s justness and dehumanization of the rival.