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.

Margaret E. Roberts, Associate Professor of Political Science at UC San Diego, delves into the complexities of censorship in China. She identifies unique tactics like 'friction' and 'flooding' that distract the general public while leaving elite groups grappling with harsher penalties. The discussion also covers how censorship shapes political behavior and information access, with a focus on the dire situation of the Uyghurs. Roberts emphasizes the evolution of censorship in the digital age, revealing how it affects both citizen engagement and government accountability.