Examples Of Censorship In 1984

1984 Censorship and the Media In the modern age, the need for one's freedom of self-expression comes about as a central role in the media and society. However, in George Orwell’s novel 1984, censorship and media manipulation clearly play a more prevalent role. In the novel, the Party strives for control of the population primarily through the use of censorship to gain the trust and loyalty of others. The method of censorship gives power to the Party and allows them to control the thoughts, languages, and beliefs of others, thus prohibiting free expression and limiting the people of Oceania. The usage of cameras and monitors also allows the government to keep everyone constantly in check on a daily basis. Not unlike many current countries,

As noted by the Party,“Who controls the past, controls the future: who controls the present controls the past.” exemplifies an example of what the government wanted; control over the future. Thoughts and language were just some of the everyday rights that were censored and rewritten for the government’s benefit. Winston knew of the censorship and propaganda the government was throwing at the public. “Big Brother is watching” remained a constant reminder of the one in control. Ironically, Winston’s job at the Ministry of Truth did not live up to its name. Winston often altered the records to fit the needs and demands of the Party. The constant involvement the Party had with news allowed them to filter out what they thought was acceptable and newsworthy. Truth became whatever the Party declared, which opposed Winston’s own

Constantly watched by security cameras and monitors, people in today’s society at times also feel watched by the government. The government’s role in the media is also apparent today, identical to the novel’s dystopian society. In 1984, the government controlled the news that was released and interestingly enough, mainstream media influences the government immensely by only reporting on what they believe the public should know about. In other words, the media exposes the public to only certain things, regardless of the validity or reliability of the news. Today, censorship comes from a variety of sources. Schools censor certain websites that students visit during the school day. Radios censor certain music because of their lyrics. The first amendment loses the“freedom of speech” aspect when it comes to the media. Apparent especially in politics, politicians will commonly reverse an opinion on an issue then deny any other opinion they had before. This strikes a quintessential example of Doublethink, a censorship method the party used in 1984. Rewriting certain phrases and language alters what people think and believe. Although, America’s censorship lacks strength compared to those of other countries. China and North Korea for example, exemplifies the powerful effects of censorship. These two countries censor the media very similar to the Party