#self-censorship

#self-censorship

Political violence undermines the sense of safety that's essential to free and open debate. If controversial views inspire murder, then most of us will be reluctant to speak out honestly. Political violence and threats can be a powerful source of self-censorship. We need to end support for political violence of every kind on every side, from this terrible murder to the threats of violence against professors from all sides who express controversial views.

As I illustrate in my forthcoming book, we live in an age of authenticity worship. From corporate mission statements urging employees to "bring their whole selves to work" to self-help gurus insisting that "being real" is the only path to fulfillment, we've elevated authenticity to near-spiritual status. But our obsession has a curious twist: we tend to grant a special premium to negative authenticity.

The task for a decentralized internet isn't just to dismantle institutional power. It has to undo the mental chains we place around ourselves that keep us censored. This speaks to a deeper challenge that goes beyond technology, posing questions about our willingness to embrace true freedom.