Ethical issues: censorship Books

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A New Yorker Best Book of the Year""A Financial Times Best Politics Book of the Year""A Foreign Affairs Best Book of the Year""Timely and indispensable." * Atlantic *"A fascinating new book." * The Economist *"[A] well-researched and entertaining book."---Tony Barber, Financial Times"Entertaining and disquieting."---Gideon Rachman, Financial Times"With meaty graphs and well-organized evidence . . . Guriev and Treisman advance subtler arguments, as they show that authoritarian rulers can come to power by democratic means and stay there."---Adam Gopnik, New Yorker"If we failed to end tyrants, we played our part in helping to mould them. As Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman observe in their intelligent, important book Spin Dictators, throughout this time something far more interesting and dangerous was happening. The most sophisticated dictators were reforming themselves, and the lesson they internalised was not the need to be democratic – that, after all, went against who they were – but the need to look democratic."---David Patrikarakos, Spectator"As Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman persuasively argue in Spin Dictators, their absorbing, meticulous study of the evolution of authoritarianism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, craft and deception have in recent decades supplanted fear and terror as the defining characteristics of today’s autocratic rulers. . . . In diagnosing a critical problem and proposing a prophylactic, Guriev and Treisman have performed a great service to the field of geopolitics."---Michael M. Rosen, Washington Examiner"Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman have written the most astute account of the system that has risen to challenge liberal democracy in the 21st century. Their book, Spin Dictators: The Changing Face of Tyranny in the 21st Century, describes the methods which have made it possible for Putin, Viktor Orban, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and others to rule over societies that in most cases had developed reasonably well functioning democracies. Other scholars and journalists have written about the tactics used by 21st century autocrats to secure control over the institutions of a free society. But Guriev and Treisman have assembled the most thorough analysis of the building blocks of contemporary dictatorships."---Arch Puddington, American Purpose"A deeply researched tour d’horizon of the evolving dark arts of authoritarian politics."---G. John Ikenberry, Foreign Affairs"The authors carefully document dozens of strategies used by authoritarian regimes around the world to successfully pass themselves off as populist supporters of democracy when the actual goal is tyranny and absolute power. As depressing as this scenario may be, the authors do politically concerned readers an immense favor, enabling us to recognize these tactics and, with that knowledge, ultimately oppose this new breed of dictator." * Booklist *"Thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening."---Joshua Huminski, Diplomatic Courier"The dictatorships of the 20th century rested on violence and direct coercion. This book argues that the 21st century has seen the emergence of a new kind of spin dictatorship — in places as diverse as Hungary, Singapore and Turkey — that adopts the forms of democracy while subverting the substance."---Gideon Rachman, Financial Times"An excellent overview of the authoritarian landscape of the early twenty-first century and how it operates within a global environment. It is well-researched, and its references are comprehensive. The excellent narrative provides a compact history and analysis of political leadership in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries."---Erwin Warkentin, European Legacy ​​​​​​​

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom Yale professor and bestselling author of How Fascism Works, a searing confrontation with the authoritarian right's attacks to undo a century of work to advance social justice action on race, gender, sexuality and class. Combining historical research with an in-depth analysis of our modern political landscape, Erasing History issues a dire warning for the world: the worst fascist movements of humanity's past began in schools; the same place so many of today's right-wing political parties have trained their most vicious attacks. Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Vladimir Putin, Turkey's Recip Erdogan, and Argentina's Javier Milei have all reached the same conclusion: if you want to roll back the clock on civil rights, equity and inclusion, a great place to start is in schools. Yale professor Jason Stanley exposes the true danger of the right's tactics and traces their inspirations and funding back to some of the most dangerous ideas of human history. He shows that hearts and minds are won in our schools and universities - and that governments are currently ill-prepared to do the work of uprooting fascist policies being foisted upon our children through school boards, in courtrooms, and in the boardrooms of the organisations trusted to train teachers and create the materials they'll share with their students. Deeply informed and urgently needed, this book is a vibrant call to action for lovers of democracy worldwide.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Bronze Medal for the Arthur Book Award, Council on Foreign Relations""Winner of the Zerilli-Marimo Prize, Academy of Moral and Political Sciences""Timely and indispensable." * Atlantic *"A fascinating new book." * The Economist *"[A] well-researched and entertaining book."---Tony Barber, Financial Times"Entertaining and disquieting."---Gideon Rachman, Financial Times"With meaty graphs and well-organized evidence . . . Guriev and Treisman advance subtler arguments, as they show that authoritarian rulers can come to power by democratic means and stay there."---Adam Gopnik, New Yorker"If we failed to end tyrants, we played our part in helping to mould them. As Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman observe in their intelligent, important book Spin Dictators, throughout this time something far more interesting and dangerous was happening. The most sophisticated dictators were reforming themselves, and the lesson they internalised was not the need to be democratic – that, after all, went against who they were – but the need to look democratic."---David Patrikarakos, Spectator"As Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman persuasively argue in Spin Dictators, their absorbing, meticulous study of the evolution of authoritarianism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, craft and deception have in recent decades supplanted fear and terror as the defining characteristics of today’s autocratic rulers. . . . In diagnosing a critical problem and proposing a prophylactic, Guriev and Treisman have performed a great service to the field of geopolitics."---Michael M. Rosen, Washington Examiner"Sergei Guriev and Daniel Treisman have written the most astute account of the system that has risen to challenge liberal democracy in the 21st century. Their book, Spin Dictators: The Changing Face of Tyranny in the 21st Century, describes the methods which have made it possible for Putin, Viktor Orban, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and others to rule over societies that in most cases had developed reasonably well functioning democracies. Other scholars and journalists have written about the tactics used by 21st century autocrats to secure control over the institutions of a free society. But Guriev and Treisman have assembled the most thorough analysis of the building blocks of contemporary dictatorships."---Arch Puddington, American Purpose"A deeply researched tour d’horizon of the evolving dark arts of authoritarian politics."---G. John Ikenberry, Foreign Affairs"The authors carefully document dozens of strategies used by authoritarian regimes around the world to successfully pass themselves off as populist supporters of democracy when the actual goal is tyranny and absolute power. As depressing as this scenario may be, the authors do politically concerned readers an immense favor, enabling us to recognize these tactics and, with that knowledge, ultimately oppose this new breed of dictator." * Booklist *"Thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening."---Joshua Huminski, Diplomatic Courier"The dictatorships of the 20th century rested on violence and direct coercion. This book argues that the 21st century has seen the emergence of a new kind of spin dictatorship — in places as diverse as Hungary, Singapore and Turkey — that adopts the forms of democracy while subverting the substance."---Gideon Rachman, Financial Times"An excellent overview of the authoritarian landscape of the early twenty-first century and how it operates within a global environment. It is well-researched, and its references are comprehensive. The excellent narrative provides a compact history and analysis of political leadership in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries."---Erwin Warkentin, European Legacy ​​​​​​​

Read more less

Book SynopsisCensored Art Today is an accessible, informed analysis of the debates raging around censorship of art and so-called ‘cancel culture’, focusing on who the censors are and why they are clamping down on forms of artistic expression worldwide. Art censorship is a centuries-old issue which appears to be on the rise in the 21st century - why is this the case?Gareth Harris expertly analyses the different contexts in which artists, museums and curators face restrictions today, investigating political censorship in China, Cuba and the Middle East; the suppression of LGBTQ+ artists in 'illiberal democracies'; the algorithms policing art online; Western museums and 'cancel culture'; and the narratives around 'problematic' monuments. His fascinating study, which draws on extensive research and interviews, reveals why censorship has become the hottest of topics, impacting substantially on artists.Trade ReviewSelected as one of Wallpaper* magazine's Best Contemporary Art Books of 2022:'From political censorship in China, Cuba and the Middle East to the suppression of LGBTQ+ artists, cancel culture and the algorithms policing art online, Harris’ superbly-researched book poses critical questions about the trajectory of free speech, free expression and ultimately, who gets to decide.' - Harriet Lloyd-Smith, Wallpaper*'Where the book really excels is in exploring the novel situation in the West, where the most prominent instances of censorship now stem from progressive concerns for social justice and inclusivity. Harris' analysis is insightful and equitable [...]. And his final chapter, on the polarising question of historically problematic statues, is one of the most cogent and elegant short accounts of the subject you're likely to read.' - Gabriel Coxhead, Art QuarterlySelected as one of FAD Magazine's Top Art Books to Read in 2023: 'I'm a fan of this series of books that takes important art topics and covers them in digestible reads. Gareth Harris looks at art in repressive regimes, the contentious issues of removing statues, and how social media controls the art we see.' – Tabish Khan, FAD MagazineTable of ContentsForeword; Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. Political Censorship in China, Cuba and the Middle East; 2. The Suppression of LGBTQ+ Artists in 'Illiberal Democracies'; 3. The Algorithms Policing Art Online; 4. Western Museums and 'Cancel Culture'; 5. Censoring the Past? The Narratives around 'Problematic' Monuments; Conclusion; Notes; Bibliography; Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisFilm Censorship is a concise overview of Hollywood censorship and efforts to regulate American films. Sheri Chinen Biesen unveils the behind-the-scenes history of cinema censorship and explore how Hollywood responded to censorial constraints on screen content in a changing cultural and industrial landscape.Trade ReviewAlthough most introductory textbooks touch upon the broader subject, with a short gloss of the Production Code Administration (PCA), there’s never been a handy guide or a more thorough treatment until now, with Sheri Chinen Biesen’s expertly researched, amply illustrated, and wonderfully concise primer Film Censorship: Regulating America’s Screen. . . . Film Censorship fills an important gap and is sure to provide a vital resource for students and readers eager to immerse themselves in this fascinating and equally fraught subject. -- Noah Isenberg * Film Quarterly *[A] thoroughly researched introduction to American film censorship. -- Katherine Waters * Times Literary Supplement *Through original and rich case studies, this volume explores the authorship, power and organization of censorship in compelling ways. Enormously valuable. -- Ellen Scott, University of California, Los AngelesThis impressive, concise, readable book should become a standard in university classrooms that teach American film culture. . . . Essential. * Choice *Students of film censorship should learn about this crucial legal component of the regulation of American screens. * Journal of American History *Table of ContentsAcknowledgementsIntroduction1. Pre-Code Era2. Enforcing the Motion Picture Production Code3. Post-war Developments4. Pushing the Envelope: The Demise of Code CensorshipEpilogue: The Post-PCA Legacy of CensorshipNotesAppendixBibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA leading Democrat challenges his party to return to liberal values and evidence-based scienceDemocrats were the party of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and faith in scientific and liberal empiricism. They once took pride in understanding how to read science critically, exercising healthy skepticism toward notoriously corrupt entities like the drug companies that brought us the opioid crisis, and were outraged by the phenomenon of “agency capture” and the pervasive control of private interests over Congress, the media, and the scientific journals.During the COVID pandemic, these attitudes have taken a back seat to blind faith in government mandates and countermeasures driven by pharmaceutical companies and captive federal agencies, promoted by corporate media, and cynically exploiting the fears of the American people.A Letter to Liberals is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s, challenge to “lockdown liberalism’s” embrace of policies that are an affront to once cherished precepts.Kennedy invites readers to look at the data in order to answer questions such as: Did COVID vaccines really save millions and end the pandemic? Why were the lowest COVID death rates in countries and states that relied on therapeutic drugs, and in countries with the lowest vaccination rates? Did vaccines prevent infection or transmission as officials promised? Why do COVID vaccines appear to show “negative efficacy”—making the vaccinated more susceptible to COVID. Why does the most reliable data suggest that COVID vaccines do not lower the risk of death and hospitalization. Should government technocrats be partnering with media and social media titans to censor and suppress the questioning of government policies? And why have so many liberals abandoned fundamental Constitutional principles in their headlong rush to embrace pandemic policies pushed by captured bureaucrats, feckless politicians, a compromised news media, and Big Pharma? In his November 2021 book The Real Anthony Fauci, which sold over 1,000,000 copies, Kennedy made predictions that have matured from “conspiracy theories” to proven facts. Among these: Masks Are Ineffective and Dangerous Social Distancing Was Not Science-Based School Closures Were Not Science-Based Lockdowns Were Counterproductive Vaccinating Children Causes More Harm and Death Than It Averts Officials Wrongly Used PCR Tests to Justify the Countermeasures COVID-19 May Have Come from Wuhan Lab Natural Immunity is Superior to Vaccine Immunity Kennedy throws down the gauntlet for the kind of vigorous scientific debate that liberals have long stood for and strives to ensure that unbiased honesty and well-researched thought is brought to bear on one of the most important and still unfolding chapters in human history.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn a groundbreaking first, cancel culture and its core elements are clearly defined, and a convincing case is made against this fundamentally un-American practice. Cancel culture is an insidious force in society today. In the seconds it takes to make one regrettable social media post—or wind up on the wrong side of a false accusation or misunderstanding—reputations, relationships, and careers are destroyed. Have we entered an era when people cannot make mistakes; where no apology or change of heart can ever deliver forgiveness? Making a comeback used to be a celebrated American ideal. But have the roads to redemption been permanently blocked by internet mobs seeking vengeance? In The Cancel Culture Curse, global crisis manager Evan Nierman and his colleague Mark Sachs examine the impact of cancel culture in today’s media-driven world. The authors also explore the history of cancel culture and the trends that have fostered it, defining the telltale elements that are hallmarks of such campaigns. Nierman and Sachs provide fascinating case studies and interviews with well-known victims of cancel culture, including philosopher Peter Boghossian, Mumford & Sons cofounder Winston Marshall, and “San Francisco Karen,” among others. Also featured, is a playbook for rebounding from public shame, helping readers avoid becoming the latest targets of “cancel vultures” who enjoy picking apart the remains of those left to die on the side of the Internet highway. Trade Review“As a survivor of cancel culture who has fought back, I can attest that this book matters. It is an important part of the struggle for liberty and against the curse of conformity. One can agree or disagree with parts of it—read it and decide for yourself—but all who support freedom of speech must join in the authors’ war against those who would cancel our hard-earned rights.” —Alan Dershowitz, Harvard Law School Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law, Emeritus; and New York Times bestselling author "With the publication of The Cancel Culture Curse, Skyhorse is continuing its proud tradition of fearlessly addressing the most controversial and critical issues of the day. A word to the wise: safeguard your future and the future of freedom of speech generally by paying attention to this book. Skyhorse takes the strongest possible stance against censorship of any kind.”—Tony Lyons, president and publisher, Skyhorse Publishing, Inc. “In clear, easy to understand prose, The Cancel Culture Curse is the definitive guide to the malignant phenomenon that’s come to characterize modern American life. If you want to learn about cancel culture and make a contribution to eliminating this uniquely idiotic and toxic social ill, this is the book for you.”—Peter Boghossian, founding faculty, University of Austin “Policymakers in Washington and business leaders around the world: ignore this book at your own risk. The Cancel Culture Curse is a compelling, clear-eyed assessment of the potentially devastating consequences of life in the digital age.” —Jon Missner, managing partner, Stein Mitchell Beato & Missner LLP “The Cancel Culture Curse is an important book and so timely. The topics it addresses apply to every human being, since people often move far too quickly to criticize one another. Cancel culture is an extreme level of criticism that directs energy in a negative direction, instead of helping people resolve misdoings and guiding them towards leading a more uplifting and rewarding life.”—Dandapani, Hindu priest and author of The Power of Unwavering Focus “Cancel culture constitutes a clear and present danger to our nation and American society. The Cancel Culture Curse makes a compelling case for better communication, as well as more compassion, forgiveness, and unity.” —Anthony Scaramucci, founder and managing partner, SkyBridge “The Cancel Culture Curse is exceptionally well written, showcasing how crumbling societal norms and raging online mobs are driving America away from its most cherished, foundational values.”—Armstrong Williams, entrepreneur, author, and national TV personality

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTwo leading thinkers present alternative answers to one of the most difficult and divisive questions of our times: Is free speech under threat?Suzanne Nossel, CEO of PEN America, the leading free expression organisation, argues that alongside the necessary and long-overdue elevation of minority voices in recent years, there has also arisen an uncompromising intolerance most notably on university campuses and online that wrongly equates a wide range of offensive speech with violence and seeks to shut it down. This has led to an escalating free speech arms race, from which everyone loses.Charlotte Lydia Riley, historian of empire and editor of The Free Speech Wars, argues that accusations of cancel culture and defences of free speech are too often disingenuous attempts to fuel a culture war and so inhibit an important realignment in which hateful speech is at last being called out for what it is and the right to free expression is being extended to more people than ever before.Published in conjunction with Intelligence Squared, the world's leading curator of debate, this book is part of the THINK AGAIN series: short books that present two expert, contrasting but equally persuasive views in a single volume that can be read from either end.

Read more less

Book Synopsis...Clifford is a talented storyteller who has met some of Hong Kong's quirkier personalities. -- Peter Baehr, Times Literary SupplementTrade ReviewPowerful, comprehensive and poignant, this book offers a truthful and balanced overview of events in Hong Kong over the past three decades or more. As someone who has lived and breathed much of what Mark Clifford writes, I identify with it and endorse it totally. If you want to understand Hong Kong, the Chinese Communist Party and the threat to freedom itself, you must make it a top priority to read this book -- Benedict Rogers, co-founder and Chief Executive of Hong Kong WatchGripping and powerfully written … Tells us much about the growing threat China's top leaders pose to global freedoms … Clifford pulls in the reader through a vivid account of Hong Kong's history and on-the-ground reporting on the students, business tycoons and politicians central to this disturbing drama … He taps into his deep experience running Hong Kong's top English language newspaper, directing the business association representing the region's most powerful companies, his close contacts with senior Hong Kong officials, and his crucial role as a director for Hong Kong's once most independent media company, whose destruction is central to this modern tragedy. Clifford, who has spent most of his adult life in Hong Kong, is uniquely suited to tell this sad story ... A must-read account on the ongoing destruction of Hong Kong and why it matters to the world -- Dexter Roberts, author of The Myth of Chinese CapitalismMark Clifford has written a riveting and passionate account of China's attack on Hong Kong and its broader implications. Today Hong Kong, Tomorrow the World parts the curtains on what every informed citizen should know and be thinking about -- Jeffrey E. Garten, Dean Emeritus, Yale School of ManagementThe world has usually viewed Hong Kong as either a last gasp of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century European colonialism or, more recently, as a buzzing beehive of modern capitalism. Neither image captures the surprising phenomenon that Mark Clifford details in this masterly study. Hong Kong has now become a front line in the worldwide quest for human freedom. Pursuit of it has spouted like a geyser from Hong Kong wellsprings that are located neither in national pride nor in appetite for lucre but in human nature itself – in the desire to be master of one's own life. The Communist Party of China's repression of Hong Kong is both fierce and unscrupulous, and the world ignores this stand-off at its peril. As Václav Havel has taught us, an assault on human dignity anywhere is an assault on it everywhere -- Perry Link, author of An Anatomy of Chinese

Read more less

Book SynopsisImmerse yourself in the stories behind the most shocking and infamous books ever published!Censorship of one form or another has existed almost as long as the written word, while definitions of what is deemed acceptable in published works have shifted over the centuries, and from culture to culture.Banned Books explores why some of the world''s most important literary classics and seminal non-fiction titles were once deemed too controversial for the public to read - whether for challenging racial or sexual norms, satirizing public figures, or simply being deemed unfit for young readers. From the banning of All Quiet on the Western Front and the repeated suppression of On the Origin of the Species, to the uproar provoked by Lady Chatterley''s Lover, entries offer a fascinating chronological account of censorship and the astonishing role that some banned books have played in changing history. Packed with eye-opening insights

Read more less

Book SynopsisFeaturing a timely and diverse cross-section of frequently targeted titles, complete with many quotes and comments from authors whose works have been challenged, this book will be an important tool for library managers, children's and YA librarians, and teachers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe New York Times bestselling author of Reading Lolita in Tehran returns with a guide to the power of literature in turbulent times, arming readers with a resistance reading list, ranging from James Baldwin to Zora Neale Hurston to Margaret Atwood.[A] stunning look at the power of reading. ... Provokes and inspires at every turn. —Publishers Weekly (starred review)Remarkable. ... Audacious. —The ProgressiveStunningly beautiful and perceptive. —Los Angeles Review of BooksWhat is the role of literature in an era when one political party wages continual war on writers and the press? What is the connection between political strife in our daily lives, and the way we meet our enemies on the page in fiction? How can literature, through its free exchange, affect politics?In this galvanizing guide to literature as resistance, Nafisi seeks to answer these questions. Drawing on her experiences as a woman and voracious reader living in the Islamic Republic of Iran, her life as an immigrant in the United States, and her role as literature professor in both countries, she crafts an argument for why, in a genuine democracy, we must engage with the enemy, and how literature can be a vehicle for doing so.Structured as a series of letters to her father, who taught her as a child about how literature can rescue us in times of trauma, Nafisi explores the most probing questions of our time through the works of Toni Morrison, Salman Rushdie, James Baldwin, Margaret Atwood, and more. 

Read more less

Book Synopsis"No one makes me laugh harder than Judy Gold.Trade Review"Judy Gold’s years of blazing free speech trails serve her well in this thoughtful funny book." — Jon Stewart "Judy Gold is one of the best black women comedians in the world. I'm both a student of her comedy and a follower of her teachings. The fact that we, the public, have a chance to read her book is perhaps the greatest gift that mankind has ever received. Read her book. Listen to her book. Freebase her book; it's incredible." — Chris Rock "In this staunch defense of comedians, Judy skewers a corrupt administration that regards the First Amendment as a nuisance. Using years of onstage experience and an impressive knowledge of American humor, she irrefutably demonstrates the critical role comedians play in keeping us connected, informed, empowered and laughing. Also, have you met Judy? Not a big hold-er back-er. I’ve known her for years to be ridiculously funny, and she has the intellectual bona fides to get you reading every page of this book." — Kathy Griffin "Judy Gold is the voice we need to cut through all the bullshit. I love her and she always makes me laugh. We need her now more than ever." — Margaret Cho “Judy Gold warns us all what happens when they come for the comedians. She shows how urgent and critical it is that we, as comics, speak truth to power—before it's too late. Yes, I Can Say That is funny and insightful—pure Judy!” — Rosie O'Donnell “The fact that the world needs a book like Yes, I Can Say That is appalling. That the marvelous Judy Gold has written it is a gift. With wisdom and unsparing clarity this book explains the crucial—yet too often overlooked—role comedians have played in in our country’s history and gives us a sane perspective on our insane society. Pick up or download this book NOW. It will make you laugh while reminding you why it’s vitally important to do so.” — Lewis Black “Gold’s defense of comedy, filled with great jokes and stories of censored comics, is a reminder that freedom of speech is no laughing matter.” — Publisher’s Weekly "A powerful, and powerfully funny, argument in support of how vital free speech is to comedy and comedy is to us." — Booklist

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat happens when we can’t joke about some of the most important stuff in life?In a 2019 study, 40% of people reported censoring themselves out of fear that voicing their views would alienate them from the people they care about most. Those people should probably not read this book in public.In You Can’t Joke About That, Kat Timpf shows why much of the way we talk about sensitive subjects is wrong. We’ve created all the wrong rules. We push ourselves into unnecessary conflicts when we should feel like we’re all in this together. When someone says “you can’t joke about that,” what they really mean is “this is a subject that makes people sad or angry.”Hilariously and movingly, Timpf argues that those subjects are actually the most important to joke about. She shows us we can find healing through humor regarding things you probably don''t want to bring up in polite conversation, like traumatic break-ups, cancer, being broke, Dave Chappelle, rape jokes, aging, ostomy bags, religion, body image, dead moms, religion, the lab leak theory, transgender swimmers, gushing wounds, campus censorship, and bad Christmas presents.  This book is Kat Timpf with her hair down, except since hers is mostly extensions, this book is Kat Timpf with her hair out. Read it because you want to get to know her better. Read it because it’s the best book on free speech and comedy in a generation. Read it because you want to laugh out loud… even at the kind of stuff we’re afraid to say out loud. Just read it, and you’ll be glad you did.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn The Net Delusion: How Not to Liberate the World Evgeny Morozov argues that our utopian, internet-centric thinking holds devastating consequences for the future of democracy. We were promised that the internet would set us free. From the Middle East''s ''twitter revolution'' to Facebook activism, technology would spread democracy and bring us together as never before. We couldn''t have been more wrong. In The Net Delusion Evgeny Morozov shows why internet freedom is an illusion. Not only that - in many cases the net is actually helping oppressive regimes to stifle dissent, track dissidents and keep people pacified, with companies such as Google and Amazon helping them do it. This book shows that free information doesn''t mean free people - and that, right now, everyone''s liberty is at stake. ''Offers a rare note of wisdom and common sense, on an issue overwhelmed by digital utopians''   Malcolm GladwellTrade ReviewEvgeny Morozov offers a rare note of wisdom and common sense, on an issue overwhelmed by digital utopians -- MALCOLM GLADWELLGleefully iconoclastic ... not just unfailingly readable: it is also a provocative, enlightening and welcome riposte to the cyber-utopian worldview. * The Economist *A delight ... his demolition job on the embarrassments of "internet freedom" is comprehensive ... as we go down the rabbit-hole of WikiLeaks, Morozov's humane and rational lantern will help us land without breaking our legs. -- Pat Kane * The Independent *A passionate and heavily researched account of the case against the cyber-utopians ... only by becoming "cyber-realists" can we hope to make humane and effective policy. -- Bryan Appleyard * New Statesman *Evgeny Morozov is wonderfully knowledgeable about the Internet-he seems to have studied every use of it, or every political use, in every country in the world (and to have read all the posts). And he is wonderfully sophisticated and tough-minded about politics. This is a rare combination, and it makes for a powerful argument against the latest versions of technological romanticism. His book should be required reading for every political activist who hopes to change the world on the Internet. * Michael Walzer, Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton *The Net Delusion is considerably more than an assault on political rhetoric ... a war against complacency. -- Tom Chatfield * Observer *Required reading for all ... a compelling primer and rebuff to the "cyber utopians" ... trenchant and persuasive. -- John Kampfner * Sunday Times *Lively and combative ... dauntingly well-informed ... injects a welcome dose of common sense into an issue that has been absurdly lacking in it. -- John Preston * Sunday Telegraph *Piercing...convincing...timely. -- Ben Hammersley * Financial Times *[M]ore than rewards a respectful reading, not only for the author's impressive knowledge of the internet toolbox...but because of his ability to relate such technological gadgetry to the increasing challenges that are being posed to entrenched authoritarianism -- James M Murphy * Times Literary Supplement *Selected by the New York Times as one of the 100 Notable Books of 2011 * New York Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“A remarkable book indeed, at once learned and engaging, well written and well conceived. It is also thoroughly researched. . . . Marcus provides us with a refreshing perspective on medicine, science, books, reading practices, professional self-definition, the discourse of utility, and the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in early modern Italy. Her own book, which is well illustrated with thirty-six figures, is both illuminating and a pleasure to read.” * Journal of Modern History *"Wonderful. . . . [The book] offers and provokes meditation on the timeless nature of censorship, its practices, its intentions and, perhaps especially, its (unintended) outcomes. . . . Forbidden Knowledge also makes an important intervention in the debate about Counter-Reformation Italy, still often represented as dominated by repressive Catholic institutions. Marcus' study of the censorship of medical texts reveals a much richer picture. . . . The book offers an invaluable meditation on the processes meant to distinguish good knowledge from bad, and the fluidity of those categories." * Times Higher Education *"Many years have passed since microhistory was the latest fashion in historiography, but [this] complex, extremely erudite, nuanced, and very carefully researched book by Hannah Marcus shows how its legacy is still with us, reinterpreted in creative and innovative ways. . . . This book, written with clarity, passion and erudition at the same time as being extremely well-researched, is a model of history writing and has the potential of becoming a classic." * Metascience *"Marcus expertly explores the mechanics and meaning of the censorship of medical writings in post-Tridentine Italy in this innovative and original study. . . . Forbidden Knowledge succeeds on multiple levels that allow for the revision of many assumptions about post-Tridentine intellectual activity. By providing details into the practices of expurgation and licensing, the book delineates the priorities of the Catholic Church, while demystifying censorship. . . . Additionally, she unveils the interests and priorities of the medical community in a manner that exceeds what is often found in traditional intellectual histories. . . . Most importantly, Marcus deftly explains the various contradictions that shaped the interactions between Catholic authorities and the medical and scientific communities of early modern Italy, showing how these dynamics defined the role of outside expertise in creating 'Catholic Knowledge' for centuries to come." * Annals of Science *"Throughout, Marcus expresses her insights in a very readable prose enriched by an excellent eye for telling anecdotes. . . . Marcus has provided an impressively researched book that makes several important contributions to understanding the application of Reformation-era Catholic censorship to the intellectual world of Italian learned medicine. There is much to draw on, and build on, in this book." * Social History of Medicine *"[A] meticulously researched study. . . . This monograph presents a series of powerful and convincing arguments about the shaping of both Catholic culture and scientific knowledge in the early modern period, but it is equally rich in material for scholars from different disciplinary and methodological viewpoints. Marcus deftly deploys the techniques and concerns of scholars who study the history of book production—collecting, material culture, literacy, and reading. In short, her work presents a compelling argument married to an innovative series of methodologies." * Journal of Interdisciplinary History *"This is an important study that all scholars and advanced students of early modern Europe will want to read, especially those interested in early modern medicine, religion, and the history of the book. . . . Highly recommended." * Choice *"Marcus provides a fresh perspective on the complex, often conflictual, relationship between religion and science in the Counter-Reformation age, illustrating the tortuous reception of prohibited medical texts in Catholic Italy." * Nuncius *"Marcus shows how censors did their job in Counter-Reformation Italy, using medicine as a test case. Censors’ tools ranged from humanist techniques for reading, which enabled them to find and highlight problematic passages, to pens and scissors, with which they defaced the names of religious enemies and much more. But their means and powers were always limited. Drawing on unexplored documents, Marcus also recreates the system of permissions that enabled medical men to stay abreast of the new books printed in Protestant Europe. As lively as it is learned, this book reveals that Italian libraries witnessed as many scenes of struggle as of repression." -- Anthony Grafton, Princeton University“Forbidden Knowledge is a fascinating story of what can go wrong in censorship regimes when the censored field is seen as essential to human health and welfare, and when the works of the authors most in need of censoring are widely recognized as indispensable to the field. In this impeccably researched book, Marcus brings her story alive by focusing on the people involved in censorship and expurgation: frustrated administrators, busy and uncooperative professors, expert readers eager to pad their libraries at the Church’s expense, and an expurgator so pious he insisted on censoring his own works. An important contribution to the histories of early modern medicine, censorship, and the book." -- Katharine Park, author of Secrets of Women: Gender, Generation, and the Origins of Human Dissection"Marcus’s story about censorship ranges much more widely than most Anglophone accounts of the topic. Her point is that the system as we see it developing in sixteenth-century Italy was not only a device for suppressing texts, but a collection of practices for editing them, approving them, and directing their circulation. The book is provocative, overdue, and exciting. It will become an obligatory point of reference in the field, and I can imagine it acting as the launching pad for a generation of future studies." -- Adrian Johns, author of Piracy: The Intellectual Property Wars from Gutenberg to GatesTable of ContentsIntroduction: The Paradox of Censorship 1. The Medical Republic of Letters and the Roman Indexes of Prohibited Books 2. Locating Expertise, Soliciting Expurgations 3. The Censor at Work 4. Censoring Medicine in Rome’s Index Expurgatorius of 1607 5. Prohibited Medical Books and Licensed Readers 6. Creating Censored Objects 7. Prohibited Books in Universal Libraries Epilogue Acknowledgments Appendix Notes Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn exploration of the censorship of medical books from their proliferation in print through the prohibitions placed on them during the Counter-Reformation. Forbidden Knowledge explores the censorship of medical books from their proliferation in print through the prohibitions placed on them during the Counter-Reformation. How and why did books banned in Italy in the sixteenth century end up back on library shelves in the seventeenth? Historian Hannah Marcus uncovers how early modern physicians evaluated the utility of banned books and facilitated their continued circulation in conversation with Catholic authorities. Through extensive archival research, Marcus highlights how talk of scientific utility, once thought to have begun during the Scientific Revolution, in fact, began earlier, emerging from ecclesiastical censorship and the desire to continue to use banned medical books. What's more, this censorship in medicine, which preceded the Copernican debate in astronomy by sixty yeTrade Review“A remarkable book indeed, at once learned and engaging, well written and well conceived. It is also thoroughly researched. . . . Marcus provides us with a refreshing perspective on medicine, science, books, reading practices, professional self-definition, the discourse of utility, and the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in early modern Italy. Her own book, which is well illustrated with thirty-six figures, is both illuminating and a pleasure to read.” * Journal of Modern History *"Wonderful. . . . [The book] offers and provokes meditation on the timeless nature of censorship, its practices, its intentions and, perhaps especially, its (unintended) outcomes. . . . Forbidden Knowledge also makes an important intervention in the debate about Counter-Reformation Italy, still often represented as dominated by repressive Catholic institutions. Marcus' study of the censorship of medical texts reveals a much richer picture. . . . The book offers an invaluable meditation on the processes meant to distinguish good knowledge from bad, and the fluidity of those categories." * Times Higher Education *"Many years have passed since microhistory was the latest fashion in historiography, but [this] complex, extremely erudite, nuanced, and very carefully researched book by Hannah Marcus shows how its legacy is still with us, reinterpreted in creative and innovative ways. . . . This book, written with clarity, passion and erudition at the same time as being extremely well-researched, is a model of history writing and has the potential of becoming a classic." * Metascience *"Marcus expertly explores the mechanics and meaning of the censorship of medical writings in post-Tridentine Italy in this innovative and original study. . . . Forbidden Knowledge succeeds on multiple levels that allow for the revision of many assumptions about post-Tridentine intellectual activity. By providing details into the practices of expurgation and licensing, the book delineates the priorities of the Catholic Church, while demystifying censorship. . . . Additionally, she unveils the interests and priorities of the medical community in a manner that exceeds what is often found in traditional intellectual histories. . . . Most importantly, Marcus deftly explains the various contradictions that shaped the interactions between Catholic authorities and the medical and scientific communities of early modern Italy, showing how these dynamics defined the role of outside expertise in creating 'Catholic Knowledge' for centuries to come." * Annals of Science *"Throughout, Marcus expresses her insights in a very readable prose enriched by an excellent eye for telling anecdotes. . . . Marcus has provided an impressively researched book that makes several important contributions to understanding the application of Reformation-era Catholic censorship to the intellectual world of Italian learned medicine. There is much to draw on, and build on, in this book." * Social History of Medicine *"[A] meticulously researched study. . . . This monograph presents a series of powerful and convincing arguments about the shaping of both Catholic culture and scientific knowledge in the early modern period, but it is equally rich in material for scholars from different disciplinary and methodological viewpoints. Marcus deftly deploys the techniques and concerns of scholars who study the history of book production—collecting, material culture, literacy, and reading. In short, her work presents a compelling argument married to an innovative series of methodologies." * Journal of Interdisciplinary History *"This is an important study that all scholars and advanced students of early modern Europe will want to read, especially those interested in early modern medicine, religion, and the history of the book. . . . Highly recommended." * Choice *"Marcus provides a fresh perspective on the complex, often conflictual, relationship between religion and science in the Counter-Reformation age, illustrating the tortuous reception of prohibited medical texts in Catholic Italy." * Nuncius *"Marcus shows how censors did their job in Counter-Reformation Italy, using medicine as a test case. Censors’ tools ranged from humanist techniques for reading, which enabled them to find and highlight problematic passages, to pens and scissors, with which they defaced the names of religious enemies and much more. But their means and powers were always limited. Drawing on unexplored documents, Marcus also recreates the system of permissions that enabled medical men to stay abreast of the new books printed in Protestant Europe. As lively as it is learned, this book reveals that Italian libraries witnessed as many scenes of struggle as of repression." -- Anthony Grafton, Princeton University“Forbidden Knowledge is a fascinating story of what can go wrong in censorship regimes when the censored field is seen as essential to human health and welfare, and when the works of the authors most in need of censoring are widely recognized as indispensable to the field. In this impeccably researched book, Marcus brings her story alive by focusing on the people involved in censorship and expurgation: frustrated administrators, busy and uncooperative professors, expert readers eager to pad their libraries at the Church’s expense, and an expurgator so pious he insisted on censoring his own works. An important contribution to the histories of early modern medicine, censorship, and the book." -- Katharine Park, author of Secrets of Women: Gender, Generation, and the Origins of Human Dissection"Marcus’s story about censorship ranges much more widely than most Anglophone accounts of the topic. Her point is that the system as we see it developing in sixteenth-century Italy was not only a device for suppressing texts, but a collection of practices for editing them, approving them, and directing their circulation. The book is provocative, overdue, and exciting. It will become an obligatory point of reference in the field, and I can imagine it acting as the launching pad for a generation of future studies." -- Adrian Johns, author of Piracy: The Intellectual Property Wars from Gutenberg to GatesTable of ContentsIntroduction: The Paradox of Censorship 1. The Medical Republic of Letters and the Roman Indexes of Prohibited Books 2. Locating Expertise, Soliciting Expurgations 3. The Censor at Work 4. Censoring Medicine in Rome’s Index Expurgatorius of 1607 5. Prohibited Medical Books and Licensed Readers 6. Creating Censored Objects 7. Prohibited Books in Universal Libraries Epilogue Acknowledgments Appendix Notes Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisRongbin Han offers a powerful counterintuitive explanation for Chinaâs survival in the digital age. Han reveals how the state, service providers, and netizens negotiate the limits of discourse, interrogating our assumptions about authoritarian resilience and the internet's democratizing power.Trade ReviewIf you are looking for that long-awaited book on China’s Internet censorship, look no further. Rongbin Han’s Contesting Cyberspace in China illuminates the labyrinths of that proverbial cat-and-mouse game with clarity and sophistication. It will be a thought-provoking and rewarding read. -- Guobin Yang, University of PennsylvaniaHow has the Internet changed state-society relations in China? How have social groups engaged in a “guerrilla war” with the authorities over cyberspace? And how is the Internet remaking China? In this empirically rich work, Rongbin Han has provided us with a vivid analysis of the interactions between the state and society in China’s cyberspace. Those who are interested in cyber affairs must read this brilliant book. -- Zheng Yongnian, National University of SingaporeContesting Cyberspace in China goes beyond the typical fascination with Chinese censorship and internet controls. It investigates the ways in which social media and online expression are pluralizing political debate in China, giving ample room for fiery nationalists and indignant leftists to attack the regime’s liberal critics. The book is an excellent study of the diversity, drama, and defiance of China’s netizens. -- Mary E. Gallagher, University of MichiganHan provides a well-written and comprehensive study on Internet censorship and online discourse in China and breaks down the assumption that the Internet is inherently regime challenging. -- John James Kennedy * Journal of Asian Studies *An excellent addition to the burgeoning literature on the political consequences of the internet in China. * Contemporary Sociology *Well-written, nuanced and full of insightful analysis. * East Asian Journal of Popular Culture *Makes significant theoretic and empirical contributions to the literatures on authoritarianism and Chinese politics. * Perspectives on Politics *Table of ContentsPreface1. Introduction: Pluralism and Cyberpolitics in China2. Harmonizing the Internet: State Control Over Online Expression3. To Comply or to Resist? The Intermediaries’ Dilemma4. Pop Activism: Playful Netizens in Cyberpolitics5. Trolling for the Party: State-Sponsored Internet Commentators6. Manufacturing Distrust: Online Political Opposition and Its Backlash7. Defending the Regime: The “Voluntary Fifty-Cent Army”8. Authoritarian Resilience Online: Mismatched Capacity, Miscalculated ThreatAppendixNotesBibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"This is a book I've long been waiting for, one that moves beyond the rarefied histories of case law and intellectual theorizations of free speech to tell the story from the bottom up. . . . This is a major contribution to multiple scholarly fields, which also speaks to key debates of our own day about freedom of speech and expression."—Whitney Strub, author of Obscenity Rules

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhile Detroit has been a major focus in urban history, little has been written on censorship in the very city thatâdue to shifting legalities, the urban crisis, and racial tensionsâprofoundly shaped media suppression in the United States. By examining censorship in film and literature, Indecent Detroit recounts the evolution of media control from the end of WWII through the 1970s, when the US saw a major change in the legal mechanisms used to censor media due to court rulings that curtailed censorship laws. Ben Strassfeld reveals how Detroit altered its censorial tactics and rhetoric from an obscenity-based system of censorship centered in the Detroit Police Department to a regulatory model based in zoning law that was then expanded nationwide. This shift was connected to broader social and political trends, including the sexual revolution, that led the public to increasingly turn against censorship. A must-read for film and media scholars, Indecent Detroit highlights how one Midwest cTrade Review"This is a book I've long been waiting for, one that moves beyond the rarefied histories of case law and intellectual theorizations of free speech to tell the story from the bottom up. . . . This is a major contribution to multiple scholarly fields, which also speaks to key debates of our own day about freedom of speech and expression."—Whitney Strub, author of Obscenity Rules

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow the essential democratic values of diversity and free expression can coexist on campus.Safe spaces, trigger warnings, microaggressions, the disinvitation of speakers, demands to rename campus landmarks—debate over these issues began in lecture halls and on college quads but ended up on op-ed pages in the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, on cable news, and on social media. Some of these critiques had merit, but others took a series of cheap shots at “crybullies” who needed to be coddled and protected from the real world. Few questioned the assumption that colleges must choose between free expression and diversity. In Safe Spaces, Brave Spaces, John Palfrey argues that the essential democratic values of diversity and free expression can, and should, coexist on campus. Palfrey, currently Head of School at Phillips Academy, Andover, and formerly Professor and Vice Dean at Harvard Law School, writes that free expression

Read more less

Book SynopsisOffers an account of how the Internet is transforming gossip, the way we shame others, and our ability to protect our own reputations. Focusing on blogs, Internet communities, and cybermobs, this book shows that, ironically, the unconstrained flow of information on the Internet may impede opportunities for self-development and freedom.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBook Selection and Censorship offers an in-depth exploration of the interplay between library practices, community pressures, and the evolving cultural climate in mid-20th century California. This groundbreaking study, initiated by the California Library Association and the University of California's School of Librarianship, investigates how librarians in public and school libraries navigated challenges to intellectual freedom during a period marked by heightened scrutiny from state and national un-American activities committees. Through meticulous interviews across 26 diverse communities, the research uncovers the factors shaping book selection policies, the handling of controversial materials, and the influence of both internal institutional pressures and broader societal temper of the times. This comprehensive analysis combines quantitative data with qualitative insights to reveal the complexities of librarians' decision-making processes in the face of censorship. It traces how external and internal pressures contributed to restrictive practices, often preemptively embedded into routine procedures. Ideal for scholars of library science, intellectual freedom, and social history, the study serves as a vital resource for understanding the dynamics of censorship, professional ethics, and the enduring struggle to maintain the freedom to read in an ever-changing sociopolitical landscape. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1959.

Read more less

Book SynopsisGovernment’s use of largess to secure consent to conditions all too often serves as an illicit pathway of power. This mode of control is part of the contemporary reality of American governance, and it therefore needs to be recognized alongside more familiar sorts of power, such as rule through law and administrative power.Trade ReviewHamburger has done admirable service excavating and exploring the ways in which purportedly voluntary concessions are a means of extending government power and control. If this book does nothing but enhance our collective vigilance to the danger of purchased submission, it will have performed an essential service. -- Jonathan H. Adler * National Review *A damning indictment of the administrative state…Hamburger has written an incisive and thorough book on the federal government’s campaign to impose an Orwellian dystopian and totalitarian regime on the populace. -- John Dale Dunn * American Thinker *Hamburger provides a radically new perspective on our constitutional system’s condition…[A] brave, insightful book. -- Robert F. Nagel * Claremont Review of Books *The issue of administratively imposed legal requirements arises in multifarious forms in connection with the Covid-19 epidemic. Federal vaccination requirements backed by the imposition of conditions are one such form. Professor Hamburger’s new book therefore could not be more timely. It seems uncannily to have been written in anticipation of this moment. -- Scott Johnson * Power Line *Professor Hamburger takes on the whole of government by challenging regulation effected by bureaucratic bribery, extortion, and barratry. He traces actions of federal, state, local, and private agents that procure what passes as the ‘consent’ of the governed, to submission and further crimping of our liberties. A powerful analytical framework by which to combat encroachment on our rights by government in all its forms, and by government’s private proxies. -- Judge Carlos Bea, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth CircuitTo the venerable doctrine of ‘unconstitutional conditions’—the deceptively simple idea that government may not do indirectly what it may not do directly—Philip Hamburger has brought his great talents as a political theorist, law professor, and civil libertarian. Following his pathbreaking earlier work on the perils of government by the unelected agents of the administrative state, he now contributes deep insight and learning to the phenomenon of legal power exercised by the richest potentate in America: the federal government. An important and welcome contribution to the history and politics of the modern American state. -- Judge José A. Cabranes, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second CircuitThis book brings to light, in one place, the myriad ways in which the federal and state governments purchase our submission to conditions—some of them unconstitutional—without going through the regular legal order of legislation or even administrative rulemaking. From the licensing of broadcasters to the ‘chemical castration’ of sex offenders, to surprise inspections of AFDC households, transactional government buys our consent to what the author rightly calls ‘an alternative mode of governance.’ -- Judge Douglas H. Ginsburg, U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. CircuitHaving already taught us how administrative power has displaced the legislative and judicial processes for enacting laws and adjudicating cases, Professor Hamburger now explains how government’s placement of conditions on spending and other government benefits also displaces constitutional processes and risks undermining our constitutional liberties. It is not a happy book, but one that is essential reading. Eye-opening. -- Michael Rappaport, coauthor of Originalism and the Good ConstitutionThis important book lays bare a critical threat to our liberty and basic structure of government, explaining how our own tax dollars are being used to purchase consent and to obviate the need for the government to regulate through more accountable channels. Equally important, it offers concrete suggestions to retool constitutional doctrine to meet the realities of how we are now governed. -- Paul Clement, 43rd Solicitor General of the United StatesPhilip Hamburger is one of the most important legal scholars in America…In Purchasing Submission, Hamburger turns from the administrative state to another cancerous growth of governmental power that operates parallel to the constitutional framework. Here, the federal government’s sheer purchasing power becomes another means of sidestepping the Constitution and dominating citizens outside the rule of law. -- Alexander Riley * Chronicles Magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisLibraries preserve the knowledge and ideas on which rights depend; no wonder they are so often attacked. Richard Ovenden tells the history of this deliberate destruction of knowledge—from library burnings to digital attacks and contemporary underfunding—and makes a passionate plea for the importance of these threatened institutions.Trade ReviewA stark and important warning about the value of knowledge and the dangers that come from the destruction of books. Vital reading for this day and age. -- Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk RoadsIf you care about books, and if you believe we must all stand up to the destruction of knowledge and cultural heritage, this is a brilliant read—both powerful and prescient. -- Elif ShafakCompelling…a book of great power and reach. -- Edmund de Waal[Ovenden] is acutely aware of the many ways in which books and paper archives cease to exist: not only through deliberate destruction—acts of moral outrage, retribution, even efforts to literally erase history—but also simple neglect…Fortunately, he has devoted a great deal of time to thinking about these disasters and how to prevent them. His compelling thoughts are now gathered in the eminently readable (and provocatively titled) Burning the Books…Essential reading for anyone concerned with libraries and what Ovenden outlines as their role in ‘the support of democracy, the rule of law and open society.’ * Wall Street Journal *Present-day anxieties confer unwelcome relevance to Richard Ovenden’s Burning the Books…[He] emphasizes that attacks on books, archives and recorded information are the usual practice of authoritarian regimes. Control what people know and you control them; control the past and you control the future…Ovenden argues that libraries should be used to safeguard our digital data, so that the powerful don’t simply delete anything they don’t like or wish to repudiate. -- Michael Dirda * Washington Post *Like an epic filmmaker, Richard Ovenden unfolds vivid scenes from three millennia of turbulent history and closes in to mount passionate arguments for the need to preserve the records of the past—and of the present. In the current changing landscape of knowledge and power, this urgent, lucid book calls out to us all to recognize and defend one of our most precious public goods—libraries and archives. -- Marina Warner, President of the Royal Society of Literature and author of Stranger MagicThe sound of a warning vibrates through this book…Takes a nightmare that haunts many of us—the notion of the past erased—and confirms that it is no fiction but rather a recurring reality. In the process, Ovenden stays true to his calling, reminding us that libraries and librarians are the keepers of humankind’s memories: without them, we don't know who we are. -- Jonathan Freedland * The Guardian *Chronicles how libraries have served as sanctuaries for knowledge under constant threat, and what that means for the present and the future…Shows that when knowledge in print is threatened by power, it’s people pledged to the printed page, rather than armies, who step in…Made clear to me just how vulnerable libraries really are. When we don’t properly fund them, we risk lies becoming the truth, and the truth becoming a joke. * Slate *Whether we are looking at history ancient or modern, the wicked behavior is the same. And those seeking to destroy accumulated knowledge do not only deploy violent methods. One of the subtle themes in the book is how long-term destructive behavior toward learning and knowledge manifests itself—not as book-burning so much as a slow and metaphorical burn. Ovenden describes cases of the destruction of knowledge due to gradual organizational neglect; a ‘lack of oversight, leadership, and investment’; and the ‘underfunding, low prioritization, and general disregard for’ institutions that preserve and share knowledge—savage indictments of a kind of bureaucratic destruction that read like office memoranda from the present day. -- Peter B. Kaufman * Los Angeles Review of Books *Vibrant societies build libraries; declining societies close them… It’s no longer necessary to burn a library; the same effect can be achieved through systematic use of the ‘delete’ key… Ovenden argues that only libraries can be trusted to preserve the inconvenient truths that lurk on the internet…A passionate and illuminating account of the obliteration of knowledge that has occurred over the past three millennia…This splendid book reveals how, in today's world of fake news and alternative facts, libraries stand defiant as guardians of truth. -- Gerard DeGroot * The Times *When people burn books, they are doing more than attacking words on paper. They are attempting to destroy the record of a people’s past and, through that, their right to be present…It is tempting to think the danger of literature erasure is now behind us because we can store it all digitally. This, Ovenden says, is mistaken. Digital records are fragile…This book should stir us to thinking and to action—against censorship, against careless loss, and for the preservation of the memory of where we came from and of our right to be where we are. -- Michael Skapinker * Financial Times *[A] rich and meticulous 3,000 year history of knowledge and all the ways it may be preserved (or not)…Written at a time of huge political and economic strife, attempts to save the concept of the library itself, something it achieves not through polemic…but by telling stories…As Ovenden quietly notes, archives are central to social order, to the ordering of history, and to the expression of national and cultural identity. -- Rachel Cooke * The Observer *Shows just how vulnerable archived knowledge is, from the pile of 28,000 clay tablets rescued for the British Museum from Ashurbanipal’s library, destroyed by conquerors of Nineveh in 612 BC, to the deletion of millions of photos from Flickr accounts in 2019. -- Christopher Howse * The Telegraph *For Ovenden, the imperative to preserve libraries draws moral force from the memory of oppressors who have tried to obliterate all memory of the oppressed…The keeping of records remains itself a kind of warfare. The keepers, whether they wish so or not, cannot be neutral. -- Elyse Graham * Public Books *A wide-ranging and thought-provoking account of efforts to destroy, neglect, or conceal books, archives, private papers, government documents, and other records…Even more troublesome, according to Ovenden, are the vast quantities of information currently held at the whim of a few global tech giants…An engrossing and informative portrait of how important it is to preserve and protect knowledge. * Publishers Weekly *A superb book…A history of destruction, not by accident, but by acts of erasure. The villains in the long history of malice toward knowledge include authoritarian governments, dogmatic religions, and a blind know-nothingness that tramples on what it does not understand…Not only a work of history, but a clarion call for those who love books and obsess over their survival. -- Thomas Filbin * Arts Fuse *This isn’t about burning books at all, but saving them. This is a call to arms by the guardian of one of the greatest libraries in the world and the custodian of millions of books. -- Christopher de Hamel, author of Meetings with Remarkable ManuscriptsThe era of fake news and alternative facts reminds us that the burning of books is about much more than matches and accelerants; it is about power. Even as the digital world offers ways of sharing and preserving knowledge, it gives would-be biblioclasts fresh options for destruction, new instruments for erasure. Burning the Books arrives at a crucial juncture. With historical breadth, narrative focus, and the capacious sensibility of a keeper of books, Richard Ovenden catalogues the destruction of knowledge and memory—not only archiving the episodes, but offering schema for comprehending the losses and defending the stacks of the future. -- Matthew Battles, author of Library: An Unquiet HistoryFrom ancient Nineveh to medieval Glastonbury, from Sarajevo after World War II to the cloud, men and women have found ways to destroy books and documents—and to preserve them. This lively, richly detailed book by the keeper of one of the world’s greatest libraries evokes both the magic and the meaning of these records of destruction and preservation, and makes a powerful case for the signal importance of libraries in the digital age. -- Anthony Grafton, author of Inky Fingers: The Making of Books in Early Modern EuropeBurning the Books is both timely and authoritative. The subject of archives and libraries is one of permanent importance in the understanding a nation has of itself, and touches not only high politics but also information technology and life-and-death drama. I can think of no one better qualified to write about it than Richard Ovenden, whose great knowledge and wide experience is expressed in a clear and lively style. -- Philip Pullman‘Dangerous souvenirs’ is what Richard Ovenden calls the books salvaged by ex-monks under the nose of Henry VIII. Now as then, books need friends. This fascinating book will help to find them. -- Alan BennettA magnificent book—timely, vital, and full of the most incredible tales. A manifesto for our humanity and its archives. -- Philippe Sands, author of East West StreetFrom arson to neglect, from state censorship to corporate digitization, Ovenden provides a sweeping tour of the vulnerabilities that affect whole libraries even more than the sum of their bookish parts. -- Leah Price * Public Books *Ovenden writes with a sense of urgency. Libraries and archives are under assault today, he argues, and our complacency is leading to alarming levels of reduced resources for our ‘storehouses of knowledge.’…A call for renewed support for memory institutions, specifically increased funding for digital preservation projects…He joins other library directors at prestigious institutions who are working hard to combat the false idea that libraries and archives are irrelevant in the digital world. -- Jason Dyck * College & Research Libraries *There could never be a more relevant time for the publication of Burning the Books: A History of the Deliberate Destruction of Knowledge. ‘Democratic institutions, the rule of law and open society are under attack. The truth itself is under attack,’ author Richard Ovenden predicts with chilling accuracy months before the invasion of the U.S. Capitol by rioters…It is an history of the disrespect shown to libraries throughout the ages, and a treatise on why we must strive to protect and preserve them…There is something for everyone who loves libraries in this book…Ovenden lists the crucial role libraries and archives have played throughout history and what is lost when they are destroyed. -- Gretchen Webster * Publishing Research Quarterly *Unbiased and first-rate scholarship. -- Jeffrey Garrett * Library Quarterly *Burning the Books at once provides a striking reminder of the necessity of such places for social well-being, along with a kind of love letter to some of the best librarians history has to offer…Ovenden’s volume is an unambiguous reminder of the risks specific individuals took to ensure the survival of written knowledge…Throughout Burning the Books, we are clearly in the hands of someone who has devoted his life to preserving the written word, and we can only hope that individuals like Ovenden will receive the necessary support in order to continue to resist ‘the long history of attacks on knowledge’ that he chronicles. -- Daniel Diez Couch * American Literary History *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA collection of quotes that demonstrates the simplicity of the author's thoughts on key aspects of his art, politics, and life. It is organized into six categories: freedom of expression; art and activism; government, power, and moral choices; the digital world; history, the historical moment, and the future; and personal reflections.Trade ReviewOne of The Village Voice's Favorite Books for 2012 One of Big Think's Best Art Books of 2012 One of Huffington Post's Best Art Books for 2012, List of the 50 Greatest Creative Publications "Warsh has collected statements from Weiwei on topics ranging from technology to Twitter, freedom of speech to the power of action, and creativity to morality. Although loosely divided into chapters, the book and its brief but powerful quotations all reference back to humanity and the rights of all its members. Unfailingly pithy and refreshingly modest, the book reads quickly and conversationally. Inspirational through its simplicity and generating feelings of complicity, Weiwei succeeds in creating obsessed readers and his desire for obsessed citizens, in China and the world at large, cannot be far behind."--Publishers Weekly (starred review) "[H]ere is a man who understands how to get messages to people. His expertise in artful dissemination is the 21st-century equivalent of Andy Warhol's brilliant populism... [E]pigrammatic, pungent, uncompromising."--Peter Aspden, Financial Times "Physically Weiwei-isms is a black, small hardbound book, fitting nicely into a jacket pocket and meant to be carried around, perused at chance moments and ruminated on. It knowingly bears a resemblance to the little red books that were given out by Chairman Mao in order to popularize his philosophies to his subjects. Yet, brainwashing is not the dastardly attempt of the author this time; it is more akin to brain-widening. Take a look for yourself. I feel safe in saying that some statement, one of his turns of phrase, will hit you like a punch in the gut, likely leaving an emotional bruise that will take great time and thought to recover from."--Luke Goldstein, Blogcritics "If it's even possible to put a whole person into your pocket, Weiwei-isms comes close... Unlike The Little Red Book, carrying Weiwei-isms isn't compulsory, but you'll find yourself compelled to read it again and again and fit it into your head and heart, if not your pocket."--Bob Duggan, Big Think "For those who have been moved by his struggles with the Chinese authorities, who admire his art or dance along to his irreverent interpretation of Psy's 'Gangnam Style', taken up by artists and museums across the world on YouTube, Ai Weiwei's little book of sayings is for you."--Sarah Greenberg, Editor of RA Magazine "This little book collects Ai's aphorisms, or 'Weiwei-isms,' distilled thoughts culled from Ai's writings, interviews, and Twitter posts on freedom of expression, human rights, art and activism, power and the government, and moral choices... As brilliant and serious as Ai is, he is also companionable and uplifting."--Booklist "Although this book, a collection of quotes from Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, is only four by five inches in dimension, it contains powerful and dangerous ideas. Powerful for general readers: 'Creativity is part of human nature. It can only be untaught.' And dangerous to China's leaders: 'The people who control culture in China have no culture.' Chinese authorities have beaten and jailed Ai, destroyed his studio, and threatened his loved ones because he won't stop denouncing government oppression. Buy this book to keep his brave words alive, since, as he points out, 'The government computer has one button: delete.'"--R.C. Baker, Village Voice "PERFECT FOR: Dissidents-in-training, Ai fans and anyone with a Twitter handle."--Huffington Post "His quotations, collected from his own writings, interviews and Tweets, offer musings on art, politics and Chinese life. They also show us the man himself: uncompromising, upfront, amusing, and charismatic, with an often wicked sense of humour."--Clarissa Sebag-Montefiore, The Independent "The little black book of Weiwei-isms packs a serious, pensive punch."--Karen Day, Cool Hunting "Don't let the size fool you. Ai Weiwei's 'little black book' will leave a lasting impression."--Sylvia Tsai, ArtAsiaPacific "This wonderful little book of memorable quotes from the Chinese artist Ai Weiwei--culled from his numerous videos and posts on his blog and Twitter--encourages us to accept the challenges of life and to use our time on this earth to stand up for human rights and a better life for all."--John May, Generalist "Weiwei-isms is not another trite collection of quotes gathered for the casual reader. From a man who admonishes 'Say what you need to say plainly, and then take responsibility for it' comes this short, frank, and thoughtful collection that does just that."--Michael Abatemarco, Pasatiempo, New MexicanTable of ContentsIntroduction vii On Freedom of Expression 1 On Art and Activism 23 On Government, Power, and Making Moral Choices 39 On the Digital World 69 On History, the Historical Moment,and the Future 77 Personal Reflections 91 Sources 103 Chronology 117 Acknowledgments 127

Read more less

Book SynopsisExamining such hot-button issues as trigger warnings, safe spaces, hate speech, disruptive protests, speaker disinvitations, the use of social media by faculty, and academic politics, "Speak Freely" describes the dangers of empowering campus censors to limit speech and enforce orthodoxy.Trade Review“[A] sophisticated and coolheaded defense of free speech.”—Peter Berkowitz, Real Clear Politics “Involve[s] readers in the pleasures of confronting a difficult problem, treating the dangerous views of determined adversaries with an open mind and proceeding with greater confidence as a result.”—Jonathan Marks, Wall Street Journal“Cogent and compelling. . . . Speak Freely supplies clarity and good sense to a subject that has been receiving a lot more heat than light.”—Glenn C. Altschuler, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette“The best of the recent books on free speech and higher education.” —James Stoner, Law and Liberty“A timely defense of intellectual debate and critical thinking. . . . In the current divisive political climate, Whittington shows why safeguarding the civil exchange of diverse ideas is an urgent need.”—Kirkus Reviews

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A History Today Book of the Year""A fascinating study of censorship in modern Britain"---Hannah Rose Woods, History Today"A Matter of Obscenity: The Politics of Censorship in Modern England refashions developments in the law into a lucid and engaging cultural history."---Thomas J. Sojka, Los Angeles Review of Books"The description of obscenity trials famous and less well-known is superbly rendered, as is Hilliard’s analysis of the ever-changing link between social morality and the law"---Matthew D’Ancona, Tortoise Media"A Matter of Obscenity is an informative, even-handed and lucid study of British censorship in the 20th century. It is highly recommended, wherever you draw your personal lines regarding the division between the acceptable and unacceptable."---Alexander Adams, Spiked"Christopher Hilliard’s A Matter of Obscenity is an engaging read, full of compelling details about the authors and publishers accused of trafficking in obscenity and about the politicians and judges who claimed to know it when they saw it"---Emily Rutherford, History Today"Hilliard offers a fascinating romp through pornography, gangster comics, naughty postcards, avant garde plays, lewd cinema and modernist literature to demonstrate how ‘obscenity law reflected uncertainties about what could be said – and, crucially, how and to whom – in a changing society"---Alecia Simmonds, Literature and History

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A History Today Book of the Year""A fascinating study of censorship in modern Britain"---Hannah Rose Woods, History Today"A Matter of Obscenity: The Politics of Censorship in Modern England refashions developments in the law into a lucid and engaging cultural history."---Thomas J. Sojka, Los Angeles Review of Books"The description of obscenity trials famous and less well-known is superbly rendered, as is Hilliard’s analysis of the ever-changing link between social morality and the law"---Matthew D’Ancona, Tortoise Media"A Matter of Obscenity is an informative, even-handed and lucid study of British censorship in the 20th century. It is highly recommended, wherever you draw your personal lines regarding the division between the acceptable and unacceptable."---Alexander Adams, Spiked"Christopher Hilliard’s A Matter of Obscenity is an engaging read, full of compelling details about the authors and publishers accused of trafficking in obscenity and about the politicians and judges who claimed to know it when they saw it"---Emily Rutherford, History Today"Hilliard offers a fascinating romp through pornography, gangster comics, naughty postcards, avant garde plays, lewd cinema and modernist literature to demonstrate how ‘obscenity law reflected uncertainties about what could be said – and, crucially, how and to whom – in a changing society"---Alecia Simmonds, Literature and History

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe demand for free speech on campus is a distraction, we need to follow the moneyTrade Review‘This deeply researched and urgent book reads like a detective mystery. A riveting self-defence manual for all who fear for the future of our country and our planet' -- Nancy MacLean, author of ‘Democracy in Chains: The Deep History of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America’‘Universities regularly conduct important discussions of free speech. And then there is the largely imaginary ‘campus free speech crisis’. This book is a detailed and valuable guide to the shadowy right-wing financial networks irresponsibly stoking the latter to the growing detriment of the former’ -- Hank Reichman, Professor Emeritus of History, California State University, East Bay‘An essential analysis of the amped-up culture wars over free speech’ -- ‘Times Higher Education’‘An insightful dive into the ways higher education has been impacted—indeed, manipulated—by conservatives. Read it and fight back’ -- Eleanor J. Bader, ‘The Progressive’'Deeply researched and well-argued' -- ‘Inside Higher Education’Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: Overview of the Koch’s Campus Free Speech Machine 1. The Donor Strategy 2. The Student Groups 3. The Provocateurs 4. The Media Amplifiers 5. The Lawyers 6. Changing the Laws 7. The Academics 8. The Free Speech International Conclusion: Refusing the Plutocratic Free Speech Narrative Appendix 1: Koch Network Payments to Organizations Mentioned in the Text Appendix 2: Resources for Activists Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn uncovering of the terrifying depths of authoritarian power that hide behind the infamous story of WikiLeaksTrade Review'The vindictive hounding of Julian Assange by the US government deserves as wide an audience as possible. There is no journalist better placed to tell the story than Stefania Maurizi. This Italian journalist has been following the story of Assange and WikiLeaks closely for more than a decade and personally knows most of those involved. But what stands out is her sheer perseverance. Many journalists would have given up after her multiple requests under the Freedom of Information Act were largely rebuffed by governments in the UK, US, Sweden and Australia. But she proved dogged, engaging in what she describes as ‘trench warfare', taking them to court, the legal costs often paid for by her personally. Through this persistence, she uncovered lots of new information. As well as being the most detailed account of the persecution of Julian Assange, Maurizi weaves in the stories of whistle-blowers such as Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden, making it one of the most comprehensive accounts yet of the battle between the national security apparatus and advocates of privacy and press freedom. It should be a must-read for all journalists. If Assange can be persecuted on the flimsy grounds exposed by Maurizi, then all journalists anywhere in the world who challenge the US are at risk.' -- Ewen MacAskill, Pulitzer Prize winner for Public Service 2014'A rigorous, compelling and highly readable reconstruction of the WikiLeaks case. I highly recommend this work. No one conveys better the urgency of averting the extradition and prosecution of Assange' -- Daniel Ellsberg, US whistleblower who leaked the Pentagon Papers'Maurizi's relentless, rigorous and courageous work has produced compelling evidence for the flagrant and deliberate illegality of Julian Assange's persecution. She has decisively contributed to my official investigation into the case as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture' -- Professor Nils Melzer, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture (2016-2022)'Stefania Maurizi's book on the persecution of Julian Assange is the definitive text on this tragedy. To read it is to resist, it is a must read. Free Assange' -- Roger Waters, co-founder of Pink Floyd'Stefania Maurizi's revelation of the role of the UK Crown Prosecution Service, then run by Keir Starmer, in the persecution of Julian Assange was a journalistic landmark. Her book is a lesson to all who expose the malign secrets of state power' -- John Pilger'Heroic freedom-fighter or maverick controversialist - Assange is a polarising character. But we can all agree that the classified documents he published revealed much of the heinous barbarity of the post 9/11 US-led wars. This book is a passionate plea in Julian's defence. To extradite would send the message that no journalist or publisher is safe anywhere in the world' -- Kathy Lette, best-selling author and TV presenter'Everything you think you know about this story is not what you think. Maurizi brilliantly tells the real story of what happened with WikiLeaks and the powers that went out to destroy it' -- John Goetz, Editor of Investigations at German State Broadcaster 'NDR''The best possible tribute to Julian Assange's sacrifice on behalf of Western citizens whose governments have been committing, in their name, crimes against humanity. Stefania Maurizi has sacrificed much to write this book, making it a book to read, behold and promote to anyone who cares about the truth' -- Yanis Varoufakis, Professor of Economics at the University of Athens'An exceptional book by an exceptional journalist. Written like a political thriller, 'Secret Power' is not only one of the best accounts of the WikiLeaks revolution and the man behind it. It's also a deeply disturbing investigation into the military-intelligence complex and secret power determined to dismantle the last strongholds of democracy, namely freedom of the press' -- Srecko Horvat, philosopher and author of 'Poetry from the Future''The story of the aftermath of the biggest story in journalism in generations brilliantly laid out by Maurizi. A must read for everyone interested in finding out how democratic and free, the 'free and democratic west' indeed is.' -- Helgi Seljan, investigative journalist at 'Stundin''A gripping first-hand account of the Assange affair' -- Gavin Jones, senior Reuters correspondent in Rome‘Superb’ -- Thomas A. Drake, whistleblower and former senior executive of the National Security Agency'Masterful…Maurizi has very likely produced the definitive version of the WikiLeaks story, and it’s a page-turner to boot' -- Chip Gibbons, ‘Jacobin’Table of ContentsForeword by Ken Loach Introduction: The Man Who Stood Up to Secret Power 1. The Wikileaks Revolution 2. The Exceptional Courage of Chelsea Manning 3. Afghanistan: The Faraway War 4. The Cypherpunk 5. A Database from Hell: the Iraq War Logs 6. Rattling Power at the Highest Levels: Cablegate 7. Guantanamo: The Black Hole of Civilisation 8. "The Huffington Post gang is driving me nuts" 9. From Sweden to Ecuador 10. No Place for Protection 11. My Trench Warfare to Unearth the Truth 12. Arbitrarily Detained 13. A Russian Connection? 14. The Fury of the CIA 15. Under Siege 16. The Final Attempts 17. In the Would-be Guantanamo 18. 175 Years for the Crime of Journalism 19. Only Kafka 20. A Monstrous Injustice 21. Secret Power Acknowledgments

Read more less

Book SynopsisBased upon original research in archives in Ireland, Great Britain, the United States and Canada, this study opens a new page in the history of wartime propaganda and censorshipTrade ReviewNow, for the first time, a detailed and high-quality examination of American and British anti-neutrality propaganda finally exists. Robert Cole's ably written and informative monograph will become a staple reference work for all engaged in researching Irish neutrality during World War II. 'Now, for the first time, a detailed and high-quality examination of American and British anti-neutrality propaganda finally exists. Robert Cole's ably written and informative monograph will become a staple reference work for all engaged in researching Irish neutrality during World War II.' American Historical Review A vital study of propaganda and censorship in the age of mass communications from which historians of several genres will undoutedly profit. -- Mervyn O'Driscoll, University College Cork American Historical Review Now, for the first time, a detailed and high-quality examination of American and British anti-neutrality propaganda finally exists. Robert Cole's ably written and informative monograph will become a staple reference work for all engaged in researching Irish neutrality during World War II. 'Now, for the first time, a detailed and high-quality examination of American and British anti-neutrality propaganda finally exists. Robert Cole's ably written and informative monograph will become a staple reference work for all engaged in researching Irish neutrality during World War II.' American Historical Review A vital study of propaganda and censorship in the age of mass communications from which historians of several genres will undoutedly profit.Table of Contents1. Setting the Stage: April 1937-August 1939; 2. In Dublin's Bright City: September 1939-1940; 3. The Hazards of Neutrality: June-December 1940; 4. More Than Ever 'Ourselves Alone': January-June 1940; 5. From 'Operation Barbarossa' to Pearl Harbor: June-December 1941; 6. Here Come the Yanks!: January-December 1942; 7. Now We Have Won the War!: January-December 1942; 8. Turning the Tide: January-December 1943; 9. Eamon Who?: January 1944-April 1945; Bibliography; Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA fascinating examination of how restricting speech has continuously shaped our culture, and how censorship is used as a tool to prop up authorities and maintain class and gender disparitiesThrough compelling narrative, historian Eric Berkowitz reveals how drastically censorship has shaped our modern society. More than just a history of censorship, Dangerous Ideas illuminates the power of restricting speech; how it has defined states, ideas, and culture; and (despite how each of us would like to believe otherwise) how it is something we all participate in.This engaging cultural history of censorship and thought suppression throughout the ages takes readers from the first Chinese emperor’s wholesale elimination of books, to Henry VIII’s decree of death for anyone who “imagined” his demise, and on to the attack on Charlie Hebdo and the volatile politics surrounding censorship of social media.Highlighting the base impuls

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFilm festival premieres regularly make international headlines for their shockingly graphic depictions of sex and violence. Film critics and scholars alike often regard these movies as the work of visionary auteurs. In this provocative new book, Mattias Frey offers a different perspective, exposing how these films are calculated products, designed to achieve global notoriety.Trade Review"Extreme Cinema is an outstanding addition to the body of works that investigate the intersection of art cinema, sex, and violence and the intricate relationships among the three."— Cindy Hing-Yuk Wong, College of Staten Island, CUNY "Extreme Cinema enlightens the reader by example … Frey has given film connoisseurs a text book worthy of examination that may even inspire self examination."— Genreonline.net "[The book] arrives at a juncture in which one form of extreme cinema studies is perhaps at its end. Frey convincingly demonstrates how scholars’ appeal to an ideal spectator, use of unrefined affect theories, and overemphasis on aesthetics often generates tautological conclusions."— Canadian Review of Comparative Literature "Frey’s well researched and precise discursive analysis on extreme cinema laid the first stone to further industrial and aesthetic investigations."— Historical Journal of Film, Radio and Television "Extreme Cinema delves into what it is that motivates these film makers and our general fascination with this body of film works that exploit sex, violence, and art in an almost voyeuristic way."— Horrornews.net “In this lively, detailed analysis of ‘taboo cinema,’ Mattias Frey views ‘extreme cinema’ from an entirely new angle, offering rich insights into contemporary violence and cruelty on the screen.”— Wheeler Winston Dixon, author of Black and White Cinema: A Short HistoryTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction1 Transgression and Distinction: Filmmaker Discourses2 The Aesthetic Embrace and the Cynicism Criticism: Reception Discourses3 The Rhetoric and Role of Film Festivals4 Discourses and Modes of Distribution5 The Interpretations of Regulation6 The Added Value of International Distribution7 Sex, Violence, and Self-Exoticization8 Aesthetic Innovation and the Real: Academic Debate over Sexually Graphic Art Films9 A Discursive Approach to Hardcore Art CinemaAfterwordNotesSelect BibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book covers the history and evolution of censorship and its role in society today. Covering all forms of expression from the past to the present, from the office of the censor in ancient Rome to the Internet in the computer age, this A-Z reference examines censorship.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe issue of censorship remains prevalent in society, taking on many different forms - from suppressing individuals' rights to speak freely and read what they choose to curtailing the independence of the media. This work examines the history and practices of censorship in five countries - the United States, Russia, China, Zimbabwe, and Egypt.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis volume looks at the forms and functions of counterspeech as well as what determines its effectiveness and success from multidisciplinary perspectives. Counterspeech is in line with international human rights and freedom of speech, and it can be a much more powerful tool against dangerous and toxic speech than blocking and censorship.In the face of online hate speech and disinformation, counterspeech is a tremendously important and timely topic. The book uniquely brings together expertise from a variety of disciplines. It explores linguistic, ethical and legal aspects of counterspeech, looks at the functions and effectiveness of counterspeech from anthropological, practical and sociological perspectives and addresses the question of how we can use modern technological advances to make counterspeech a more instantaneous and efficient option to respond to harmful language online. The greatest benefit of counterspeech lies in the ability to reach bystanders and prevent them Table of ContentsIntroduction; Part I: Approaches to Counterspeech: Linguistics, Philosophy and Interdisciplinarity; 1. Counterspeech Practices in Digital Discourse - An Interactional Approach; 2. The Philosophy of Counter Language; 3. Seeing the Full Picture: The Value of Interdisciplinary Counterspeech Research; Part II: Counterspeech in Context: Media, Culture and the Legal Framework; 4. Counterspeech as Persuasion and Media Effects; 5. Online Hate speech in Video Games Communities: A Counter Project; 6. Reimagining the Current Regulatory Framework to Online Hate Speech: Why Making Way for Alternative Methods is Paramount for Free Speech; Part III: Automation and the Future of Counterspeech; 7. Automating Counterspeech; 8. The Future of Counterspeech: Effective Framing, Targeting, and Evaluation; Conclusion

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book should be of interest to anyone investigating the debate on internet governance from a legal or social science perspective, including politics, media studies and human geography. The book connects ideas about internet jurisdiction with issues of censorship and freedom of expression, as well as free trade.Table of Contents1. Introduction. Internet governance and the resilience of the nation state Uta Kohl and Carrie Fox; Part I. Competing Narratives: 2. The universal norm of freedom of expression - towards an unfragmented internet: interview with Guy Berger; 3. Which limits on freedom of expression are legitimate? Divergence of free speech values in Europe and the US Jan Oster; 4. Nation branding and internet governance: framing debates over freedom and sovereignty Melissa Aronczyk and Stanislav Budnitsky; Part II. Solid and Porous Cyberborders: 5. Gatekeeping practices in the Chinese social media and the legitimacy challenge Lulu Wei; 6. Protecting gamblers or protecting gambling? The economic dimension of borderless online 'speech' Christine Hurt; 7. Where East meets West: censorship and cyberborders through EU data protection law Uta Kohl and Diane Rowland; 8. Cyberborders through 'code': an all or nothing affair? Dan Jerker B. Svantesson; 9. Cyberborders and the right to travel in cyberspace Graham Smith; Part III. Unpacking Internet Jurisdiction: 10. Alternative geographies of cyberspace Barney Warf; 11. Polycentrism and democracy in internet governance Jan Aart Scholte; 12. The end of territory? The re-emergence of community as a principle of jurisdictional order in the internet era Cedric Ryngaert and Mark Zoetekouw; 13. A space (partially) apart? Religious asylum and its lessons for online governance Philippe Ségur; 14. Geoinformation, cartographic (re)presentation and the nation state: a co-constitutive relation and its transformation in the digital age Georg Glasze.

Read more less

Book SynopsisCatha Paquette is Professor of Art History at California State University, Long Beach, USA. She is the author of At the Crossroads: Diego Rivera and His Patrons at MoMA, Rockefeller Center, and the Palace of Fine Arts (2017). In essays published in and outside the US, she has investigated production and reception of Latin American art in Latin America and the US, including promotion, circulation, and acquisition by collectors, public agencies, and private institutions.Karen L. Kleinfelder is Professor of Art History at California State University, Long Beach, USA. She is the author of The Artist, His Model, Her Image, His Gaze: Picasso's Pursuit of the Model (1993) and has been published in the exhibition catalogues Picasso: Inside the Image (1995) and Picasso and the Mediterranean (1996). As a specialist in modern and contemporary art and theory, her research interests focus on gender, psychoanalysis, and complexity theory.<Trade ReviewThis is a useful and complex book, an anthology that potently demystifies a broad array of recent histories of truly much more than censorship: in this volume, its range of contributors seek to interrogate, understand, and explain marginalization itself: of artists, of artworks, of underrepresented vantage points and histories, all jockeying for visibility within the often-unjust, market-driven heteropatriarchy that is the contemporary art world. * Jenni Sorkin, Associate Professor, History of Art & Architecture, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA, and author of Art in California. *Table of ContentsList of Plates List of Figures Acknowledgements Introduction, Catha Paquette (California State University Long Beach, USA), Karen Kleinfelder (California State University Long Beach, USA), and Christopher Miles (Independent Scholar, USA) PART I. DEADLY SERIOUS 1. Subjugated Knowledges, Revisionist Histories, and the Problem of Visibility: Carrie Mae Weems and Ken Gonzales-Day, Nizan Shaked (California State University Long Beach, USA) 2. Damage Control: Teresa Margolles, the Mexican Government, and the 2009 Venice Biennale Mexican Pavilion, Ana Garduño (National Institute for Fine Arts, Mexico) 3. Death Matters, Kerstin Mey (University of Limerick, Ireland) PART II. THE SEXUAL (IN)SIGHT 4. Art/Obscenity in West German Experimental Film, 1968-1972: Circulating through the Debates, Megan Hoetger (University of California, Berkeley, USA) 5. Impossible to Image: Art & Sexual Violence, 1975–1979, Angelique Szymanek (Hobart and William Smith Colleges, USA) 6. De-Shaming Shame, John Fleck (Actor and Performance Artist, USA) in Conversation with Kevin Duffy (Film Director, USA) 7. Only the Stupid Are Overt: Covert Censorship in the American Museum, Jonathan D. Katz (University of Pennyslvania, USA) PART III. UNDER DELIBERATION: ARTFUL ACTIVISM 8. Tucumán Arde and the Changing Face of Censorship, Fabián Cereijido (Independent Scholar, USA) 9. The Discursive Roots of Censorship: Neoliberalism’s Rendering of Chican@ Art, Karen Mary Davalos (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, USA) 10. Tools and Obstacles, Daniel Joseph Martínez (University of California, Irvine, USA) and Carol A. Wells (Independent Scholar, USA) in Conversation with Nizan Shaked (California State University Long Beach, USA) 11. Remaining in Sight: Andrea Bowers’ Art Lessons from Activists, Peter R. Kalb (Brandeis University, USA) PART IV. FRAMED: INSTITUTIONAL AND GOVERNMENTAL CONSTRAINTS 12. In and Out of Sites: Disability and Access in the Work of Park McArthur and Carmen Papalia, Elizabeth Guffey (Purchase College, USA) 13. Culture, State, and Revolution: Arts Wars between Religious and Secular Autocracies in Post-Revolution Egypt, Sonali Pahwa (University of Minnesota, USA) and Jessica Winegar (Northwestern University, USA) 14. Knowing/Caring, Ai Weiwei (Artist and Activist) and Alexandra Munroe in Conversation (Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, USA) PART V. CONTESTED OBJECTS: (RE)PRESENTING CULTURAL HERITAGE 15. Re-Indigenizing Native Space in a University Context, Craig Stone (California State University Long Beach, USA) 16. African Cultural Heritage: Erasure, Restitution and Digital Image Regimes, Sylvester Okwunodu Ogbechie (University of California, Santa Barbara, USA) 17. Censorship and Creative (Re)Production, Morehshin Allahyari (Artist and Activist, USA) in Conversation with Brittany Ransom (California State University Long Beach, USA) PART VI. MATTERS OF RACE 18. Provocation and Valuation Our Compliance and September 2015 Letter to The Spectrum, Ashley Powell (Artist and Activist, USA) Black Judge Takes the Stand: April 2016 Response, Kara Walker (Artist, USA) 2019 Reflections, Ashley Powell (Artist and Activist, USA) 19. Presentation/Representation: Creative Expression, Speech Rights, and Pedagogy, Jane Conoley (California State University Long Beach, USA), Maulana Karenga (California State University Long Beach, USA), Karen Kleinfelder (California State University Long Beach, USA), Cyrus Parker-Jeannette (Dancer/Choreographer, USA), Michele Roberge (Independent Scholar, USA), Elena Roznovan (Artist, USA) and Cintia Alejandra Segovia (Photographer, USA), Griselda Suarez (Long Beach Arts Council, USA), Andrew Vaca (California State University Long Beach, USA), Jaye Austin Williams (Bucknell University, USA), Terri Yamada (California State University Long Beach, USA) Afterwords, Svetlana Mintcheva (National Coalition Against Censorship, USA) and Laura Raicovitch (Independent Scholar, USA) in Conversation List of Contributors Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Cancel Culture, Alan Dershowitz—New York Times bestselling author and one of America’s most respected legal scholars—makes an argument for free speech, due process, and restraint against the often overeager impulse to completely cancel individuals and institutions at the ever-changing whims of social media-driven crowds. Alan Dershowitz has been called “one of the most prominent and consistent defenders of civil liberties in America” by Politico and “the nation’s most peripatetic civil liberties lawyer and one of its most distinguished defenders of individual rights” by Newsweek. Yet he has come under intense criticism for his steadfast and consistent championing of those same principles, and his famed “shoe‑on‑the‑other‑foot test,” to those who have been “cancelled” for any number of faults, both real and imagined.Cancel Culture is a defense of due process, free speech, and even-handedness in the application of judgment. It makes the case for restraint and care in decisions about whom and what to cancel, boycott, deplatform, and bar from public life, and offers recommendations for when, why, and to what degree these steps may be appropriate, as long as objective, fair-minded criteria can be determined and met. While Dershowitz argues against the worst excesses of cancel culture—the rush to judgment and the devastating results it can have on those who may be innocent, the power of social media to effect punishment without a thorough examination of evidence, the idea that historical events can be viewed through the same lens as actions in the present day—he also acknowledges that its defenders ostensibly try to use it to create meaningful, positive change, and notes that cancelling may itself be a constitutionally protected form of free speech. In the end, Cancel Culture represents an icon in the defense of free speech and due process reckoning with the greatest challenge and threat to these rights since the rise of McCarthyism. It is essential reading for anyone interested in or concerned about cancel culture, its effects on our society, and its significance in a greater historical and political context.

Read more less

Book SynopsisExamining a phenomenon that is sweeping the country, Cancel This Book shines the spotlight on the suppression of open and candid debate. The public shaming of individuals for actual or perceived offenses, often against emerging notions of proper racial and gender norms and relations, has become commonplace. In a number of cases, the shaming is accompanied by calls for the offending individuals to lose their jobs, positions, or other status. Frequently, those targeted for “cancellation” simply do not know the latest, ever-changing norms (often related to language) that they are accused of transgressing—or they have honest questions about issues that have been deemed off-limits for debate and discussion. Cancel This Book offers a unique perspective from Dan Kovalik, a progressive author who supports the ongoing movements for racial and gender equality and justice, but who is concerned about the prevalence of “cancelling” people, and especially of people who are well-intentioned and who are themselves allied with these movements. While many progressives believe that “cancelling” others is a form of activism and holding others accountable, Cancel This Book argues that “cancellation” is oftentimes counter-productive and destructive of the very values which the “cancellers” claim to support. And indeed, we now see instances in the workplace where employers are using this spirt of “cancellation” to pit employees against each other, to exert more control over the workforce and to undermine worker and labor solidarity. Kovalik observes that many progressives are quietly opposed to this “Cancel Culture” and to many instances of “cancellation” they witness, but they are afraid to air these concerns publicly lest they themselves be “cancelled.” The result is the suppression of open debate about important issues involving racial and gender matters, and even issues related to how to best confront the current COVID-19 pandemic. While people speak in whispers about their true feelings about such issues, critical debate and discussion is avoided, resentments build, and the movement for justice and equality is ultimately disserved. Trade Review"The liberal proponents of cancel culture, as Dan Kovalik correctly points out, have become the Grand Inquisitors of speech. They wallow in a cloying self-righteousness while at the same time they refuse, either because of cowardice or ineptitude, to confront the real centers of power—the array of intelligence agencies that monitor and watch us 24 hours a day, the rampant out-of-control militarism, Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and the bankrupt corporate media outlets that amplify their petty moral absolutism. The proponents of cancel culture are part of the American burlesque of anti-politics masquerading as politics.”—Chris Hedges, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of America: The Farewell Tour “The strongest case against cancel culture should come from liberals and progressives who treasure freedom of speech and due process. Unfortunately, too many of them are asleep at the wheel. Not so Kovalik, who makes a strong liberal argument against the cancer of cancel culture.”—Alan Dershowitz, author of Cancel Culture: The Latest Attack on Free Speech and Due Process “Thankfully, Kovalik helps to cut through the Orwellian lies and dissembling . . . just when such truth-telling is so desperately needed.”—Oliver Stone, author and Academy Award-winning director, producer, and screenwriter “Kovalik offers an unflinching and desperately needed critique, not only of cancel culture, but also of the US left, which has largely forsaken class struggle for identity politics and political correctness.”—Greg Godels, writer covering political economy, current events, and philosophy “Dan Kovalik’s latest is a much-needed, laudable enterprise, courageously sounding the alarm about a tyranny being perpetrated in the name of moral and social renewal. . . . Cancel culture is militantly aggressive, unforgiving, ruthless, aimed at vilification and final extirpation of anyone who disagrees with or in any way resists its unbending, non-negotiable agenda.” —John Rachel, Dissident Voice Cancel This Book, takes aim at the domestic progressive scene and its ‘cancel culture’ aberration. . . . In his personable and anecdotal style, Kovalik compellingly revisits some of the better-known excesses of cancel culture. . . . Cancel is full of gems unearthed by Kovalik. . . . I look forward to the next book from the perceptive and prolific Dan Kovalik, which could go further and illuminate the dynamics of the underlying forces rising at this historical junction associated with the bankruptcy of liberalism and the failure of neoliberalism to serve its constituents.—Roger Harris, Counterpunch

Read more less

Book SynopsisRyan Hartwig may be one of the most important figures in American history. Hired by Cognizant as a content moderator for Facebook, Ryan Hartwig began by keeping gruesome images of cartel violence in Mexico off the platform. This seemed like a righteous mission and yet, as time went by, it became clear the Facebook bosses saw an even bigger threat, Americans of a different political viewpoint. Ryan watched in horror as Facebook made a monumental shift after the 2016 elections, hiring thousands of US-based content moderators with one mission, to favor leftist viewpoints while suppressing the speech of conservatives. Ryan describes more than forty examples of such behavior, and it will radically rewrite your understanding of the past four years as you learn how the news regarding prominent individuals like Greta Thunberg, Alyssa Milano, and Don Lemon was censored to remove legitimate criticism of them. Viral videos of Trump supporters being attacked were removed from the platform, and moderators were told to look for signs of hate speech in Trumps' State of the Union addresses, while at the same time allowing vicious attacks against police, pro-lifers, and straight white males. As America's de-facto town square, Facebook was systematically suppressing free speech, which has traditionally been our country's greatest weapon to combat extremism from either side. Ryan knew he had to take action, and contacted Project Veritas, eventually filming many of these actions with a hidden camera for the world to see. We need to stand up against tech tyranny and corporations that attempt to control our conversations, our news, and our political narratives. Reading Behind the Mask of Facebook: A Whistleblower’s Shocking Story of Big Tech Bias and Censorship​ is the first step to learning how to confront and defeat this tyranny.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Dershowitz Family Saga traces the significant modern events for world Jewry from the perspective of one immigrant family: their Galician origins in the 19th century; their Americanization and tribulations in the Goldene Medina; the tragedy of World War II and the Holocaust; the establishment of the State of Israel; the fall of communism; and the mass immigrations to Israel from Russia and Ethiopia. It takes the reader from Pilzno to the Lower East Side, from Brooklyn to Jerusalem. The aliyah of many family members before, during, and after the Six-Day War led to their involvement in the absorption of Ethiopian, Soviet, and former Crypto-Jews into the nascent state. The intellectual and spiritual heritage of the Dershowitz family is an American-Israeli success story. The author's grandfather established the first Hassidic congregation in Brooklyn; his father conceived Yeshiva Torah Vodaath; a brother served on the European front but his gun ended up with the Haganah; his nephew is the outspoken civil libertarian and advocate of Israel, Alan Dershowitz. A fascinating journey around the world through Zecharia Dor-Shav’s unique lens.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less