ChinaTalk Building – and Selling – the Great Firewall
Mar 20, 2019
James Griffiths, a senior producer for CNN International and author of "The Great Firewall of China," dives deep into China's internet evolution. He reflects on the hopeful beginnings of online freedom, contrasting them with the current oppressive censorship landscape. Griffiths shares insights on Western tech companies' ethical dilemmas in China and the global impact of the Great Firewall. The discussion also unfolds the innovative tactics of Chinese netizens resisting censorship and explores the stark differences between Chinese and Russian media propaganda.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
First Email from China
- The first email from China in 1987, sent by scientists, declared, "Across the Great Wall, we can reach every corner in the world."
- Initially failing to send, this rudimentary email marked China's first internet connection, though widespread access remained limited for years.
Internet's Power of Solidarity
- The internet's power lies in its ability to foster solidarity and organize, posing a threat to governments built on mass movements.
- The Chinese government, having experienced revolution, recognized this potential early on, especially after Tiananmen.
Connecting Dharamsala
- American technologist Dan Haig helped connect Dharamsala, India, home to the Dalai Lama, to the internet in the 90s.
- This connection significantly aided the Tibetan diaspora movement by linking them with their leadership.
