Censorship of dissenting views is taking on a truly dark dimension in universities and online spaces across the US. The concepts of free speech and intellectual reciprocity are being attacked by a class who behave like bullies even as they present themselves as victims. Their weapons of choice: labeling and ostracizing - the very things they claim to oppose.
While this week's events at Yale captured national (even international) attention, I found myself drawn into the melee over in my own little corner of the Internet. Someone on Twitter pointed out a Reddit thread in which I'm identified by anti-Gamergate peeps as a "professional harasser."
What did I do to earn this label? Since I've never *directly harassed* anyone, I have to imagine this is about my espousing "problematic thoughts." Perhaps because I don't agree with everything said by Anita Sarkeesian? And I dare use my art - my games - to present my opposing ideas?
Worse yet, according to my accusers, I use my REAL NAME when I present my ideas for debate. (It's worth noting the group labeling me a harasser does so anonymously and from within a heavily protected corner of Reddit, where outsiders are insta-banned and debate is forbidden).
My being in China means I am more than a little aware of the history of Mao's revolution and the resulting destruction of the intellectual class within this nation. The effects echo to this day in the universities, businesses, and throughout government. Dissent is dead. Conformity is the norm. And where do you think this seed was originally planted? Research "The Red Guard" and you'll understand why we should be so terrified to see university students in the US embracing the poisoned ideology of a foregone era.
It's worth taking a moment to read the full story of events at Yale via this article at the Atlantic. Watching the video in which Yale students verbally assault a school employee... I was filled with disbelief. What is going on here?
What's your view on this? Do you believe there should be limits on free speech? Do we all have a right not to be offended? Where do you think all of this is leading?
As usual, I look forward to an interesting debate in the comments wink emoticon
