Margaret Roberts

Margaret E. Roberts, an Associate Professor of Political Science at UC San Diego, discusses her book on censorship in China. She unveils the concept of 'porous censorship,' highlighting three strategies: fear, friction, and flooding. These tactics shape information access, creating distinct experiences for ordinary citizens and motivated elites. Roberts also delves into censorship's impact on protests in Tibet and the evolving digital landscape, illustrating how modern dynamics challenge traditional censorship methods.

Margaret E. Roberts, an Associate Professor of Political Science at UC San Diego, explores the intricacies of censorship within China's Great Firewall. She identifies three types of censorship—fear, friction, and flooding—clarifying how they differentially affect elites and the general public. Roberts delves into the statistical analysis of Chinese social media, revealing how censorship shapes political behavior and engagement. She also addresses the paradox of censorship provoking curiosity and demands for transparency, highlighting its impact even in liberal democracies.