Censoring Free Speech Online

In a post-industrial era where information and the exchange of ideas are as critical to the wealth of nations as much as capital, it is very alarming to see that censorship still prevails in certain parts of the world. In some cases restricting online content to filter, for example as done in many western countries, obscene and violent material especially against children may seem tolerable. However the pervasive censorship performed in some parts of Africa and Asia, especially the Middle East and China is very dangerous. Why should we care if we are not affected by it? Well, censoring free speech online and off is a threat to world peace and prosperity that should concerns us all. By blocking the exchange of information fearful tyrants bend the truth and foment hate and lies that generate extremism and can degenerate into armed conflict. I know these days it is fashionable to be green but next time we worry about saving the planet, spare a thought for our fellow men and women who leave behind these virtual walls and support organizations like Radio Free Asia who try to combat this nonsense.