: While older forms of censorship often involved pre-publication licensing, modern "liberal" regimes more frequently utilize post-publication controls like seizures, postal regulations, and industry self-regulation.
Originally published in 1989 and revised for a new edition in the mid-2000s, the encyclopedia covers a vast range of topics from ancient Rome to the digital age. Its primary goal is to document the "crowded roster" of individuals, books, films, and other works that have been targets of censorship. Key Features
: Readers have noted that the encyclopedia highlights the often-absurd nature of forbidden-book lists, showing how "decency" can be used as a cudgel to attack moral or intellectual progress. Encyclopedia of Censorship
: Beyond specific cases, the encyclopedia examines the philosophy of censorship, such as the distinction between "selection" (the democratic process of curating resources) and "censorship" (the authoritarian control of thought). Insights into the Nature of Censorship
: It traces the roots of the word "censorship" back to the Roman office of the censor—responsible for supervising public morals—and follows its trajectory into modern issues like internet filtering and self-censorship. : While older forms of censorship often involved
: A significant portion of modern censorship is "self-censorship" or "middleman-censorship," often deliberately cultivated by outside powers or corporate decision-making rather than direct government mandate.
: Designed for high school and college students, it uses an accessible alphabetical format to explore facets of the subject, including historical context for major controversies. Key Features : Readers have noted that the
Drawing from the encyclopedia and related research, several core themes emerge: