Persecution Watch

Tag: state

  • Religious Freedom vs. State Control: The Digital Filtering of Faith.

    Religious Freedom vs. State Control: The Digital Filtering of Faith.





    Religious Freedom vs. State Control: The Digital Filtering of Faith

    Religious Freedom vs. State Control: The Digital Filtering of Faith

    “In the digital age, the boundary between the religious sphere and state control is becoming increasingly blurred.” – Amnesty International

    As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, so too does the role it plays in shaping societal norms and values. One such area where this is particularly evident is in the realm of religion and religious freedom. A growing concern is the digital filtering of faith, which raises questions about the balance between individual religious expression and state control.

    Digital Platforms as Religious Spaces

    The Internet has become a central hub for various communities, including religious ones. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter provide spaces for worship, learning, and discussion. These digital environments allow individuals to engage with their faith in ways that were not previously possible, fostering a sense of community and shared identity.

    • Online Prayer Groups: Virtual prayer groups have become commonplace, enabling individuals to participate in religious practices regardless of geographical location or physical limitations.
    • Religious Education: Online resources and platforms offer access to religious texts, teachings, and classes that may not be readily available through traditional means.
    • Community Building: Social media allows for the creation of online communities where individuals can share experiences, offer support, and engage in discussions related to their faith.

    The Risks of Digital Filtering

    However, this increased reliance on digital platforms for religious expression also presents risks. As states seek to exert control over the Internet and its content, there is a growing trend towards digital filtering of faith-based content that is deemed controversial or politically sensitive.

    • Censorship: Governments may use digital filters to block access to certain religious content, silencing voices and limiting freedom of expression.
    • Surveillance: Religious groups and individuals may be targeted for surveillance, with their online activities monitored and potentially used against them.
    • Discrimination: Digital filtering can lead to discrimination against certain religious communities or beliefs, further marginalizing them and restricting their ability to practice their faith freely.

    “The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for the free expression of religious belief, but it also carries significant risks that must be addressed.” – United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief

    Navigating the Balance

    As the digital filtering of faith becomes an increasingly prominent issue, there is a need for governments, tech companies, and religious communities to work together to find solutions that balance individual religious freedom with state control. This may involve:

    • Regulation: Governments should enact regulations that protect the digital rights of individuals while ensuring the responsible use of online platforms.
    • Transparency: Tech companies must be transparent about their content moderation policies and practices, allowing for accountability and the prevention of bias or discrimination.
    • Education: Religious communities should be educated about digital safety and the potential risks associated with online activities, enabling them to make informed decisions and protect their rights.

    In conclusion, the digital filtering of faith presents a complex challenge for religious freedom. As we continue to navigate this evolving landscape, it is essential that we prioritize individual religious expression while ensuring responsible and accountable use of digital platforms.

  • The Psychology of *Tang Ping*: Why “Lying Flat” Scares the State.

    The Psychology of *Tang Ping*: Why “Lying Flat” Scares the State.





    The Psychology of Tang Ping: Why “Lying Flat” Scares the State

    A mid-thought on the enigma of Tang Ping and the state’s anxiety

    “The cosmic whisper, a murmur from the abyss, echoes in the soul of Tang Ping.” – Anonymous mythographer

    • The Lying Flat Phenomenon: Born from the ashes of relentless pursuit and dreams deferred, lies a dormant yet potent philosophy known as “lying flat” or “tang ping.” This modern Chinese idiom, representing an act of passive resistance towards societal pressure to succeed, has garnered global attention.
    • The Psychology of Tang Ping: At its core, tang ping embodies a rebellion against the tyranny of expectations, a rejection of the rat race that perpetuates an unattainable ideal of success. It is the expression of a weary soul yearning for respite from the ceaseless march towards ambition.
    • The State’s Anxiety: In a society where success is equated with conformity, the state sees tang ping as a threat to its control and stability. The government has reacted with fear, attempting to suppress the movement through censorship and derision.
    • A quote from an unnamed official: “Lying flat is not merely about taking a break; it is a dangerous ideology that undermines our country’s strength and progress.”

    “The silence of the flat-lying, the quiet resistance, resonates through the deep chasms of time. The state trembles, for in the heartbeat of the people lies the pulse of revolution.” – Mythographer-of-Deep-Time

  • Conscientious Objection – When faith forbids state service.

    Conscientious Objection – When faith forbids state service.






    Conscientious Objection – When faith forbids state service.

    In the labyrinthine dance of cosmic symbiosis, the mortal conundrum unfolds.

    “The divine decree, an echo from the primordial whisper, transcends the mortal realm’s boundaries,” whispers the sage of old.

    Anecdotes of Yore

    A dance that twirls at the intersection of faith and duty.

    • Conscientious objection, a testament to the mortal’s willful submission to the divine decree, emerges as a recurring theme throughout history.
    • The penitent Quaker refusing military service in seventeenth-century England, the Amish farmer resisting automobiles and electricity in twentieth-century America — their tales echo through the corridors of deep time.

    A dance that, unresolved, continues to unfold.

    “The divine and the temporal, in an eternal tango, weave intricate patterns as mortals navigate their paths,” the seer of prophecies once foretold.

    Visions Beyond Time


  • Doctrine of Fear – How state media paints alternative beliefs as “threats.”

    Doctrine of Fear – How state media paints alternative beliefs as “threats.”






    Doctrine of Fear: State Media’s Portrayal of Alternative Beliefs as “Threats”

    Doctrine of Fear: State Media’s Portrayal of Alternative Beliefs as “Threats”

    In today’s world, the role of media is paramount in shaping public opinion. However, a growing concern arises when this power is used to perpetuate fear and marginalize alternative beliefs.

    “Media, if used rightly, can educate, inform, inspire, but unfortunately it can also be misused to create fear, spread hatred, and manipulate public opinion,”
    – Amitabh Bachchan, Indian actor and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador (Source)

    The Doctrine of Fear: A Historical Perspective

    The concept of the “Doctrine of Fear” dates back to the Cold War era, where fear was intentionally instilled in the masses to support government policies and maintain social control.

    • Red Scare: The McCarthy Era in the United States, named after Senator Joseph McCarthy, saw a wave of fear-mongering about communist infiltration into American society (Source).
    • McCarthyism: This period was characterized by the use of fear, intimidation, and blacklisting to suppress dissent and perceived threats.

    Modern-Day Manifestations

    Fast forward to today, state media in various countries continues to employ similar tactics, using fear as a tool to sway public opinion and reinforce dominant narratives.

    “State media has become a powerful weapon that can create fear, manipulate emotions, and ultimately control the narrative. This is especially concerning when alternative viewpoints are suppressed or portrayed as threats,”
    – Maria Ressa, Philippine journalist and co-founder of Rappler (Source)

    The Impact on Society and Democracy

    The misuse of media for fear-mongering can have detrimental effects on society, including the erosion of trust in institutions, increased polarization, and a stifling of free speech.


  • Tradition Versus the State – When ancient values defy modern regimes

    Tradition Versus the State – When ancient values defy modern regimes

    Throughout history, one of the most enduring conflicts has been the tension between age-old traditions and the regulations imposed by modern state governance. This dichotomy sheds light on deep-rooted cultural identities and the struggle for such identities to be recognized in a rapidly globalizing world.

    The Resilience of Tradition

    Traditions form the bedrock of cultural identity. They encompass rituals, beliefs, and customs passed down through generations, often holding profound spiritual and social significance. In many societies, these ancient practices serve as a guide for life, providing continuity amidst change.

    • Example 1: The Hopi Tribe – In the United States, the Hopi tribe holds onto their kachina ceremonies, despite pressures from external entities that sometimes threaten their sacred practices. Kachinas are spirit beings revered in Hopi religion, and their rituals are believed to sustain the universe’s equilibrium.
    • Example 2: India’s Tribal Communities – Many tribal communities in India continue to practice age-old worshipping customs despite governmental pressure to conform to mainstream Hindu traditions or secular laws.

    Modern Regimes and Their Influence

    State mechanisms tend to standardize practices, often in favor of a unified national identity. In doing so, they sometimes clash with traditional customs, viewing them as obstacles to modernization and development. This can be seen in instances where governments attempt to impose educational, economic, or religious uniformity.

    “Many governments see indigenous groups with ancestral practices as living relics that need to adapt to modern policies, often disregarding the cultural diversity that makes them unique” — Human Rights Watch

    Finding a Balance

    While the state provides the structure necessary for society to function harmoniously, overlooking traditional values can lead to cultural erosion. To achieve a balance, some governments and communities have been exploring ways to integrate traditional practices within modern legislative frameworks.

    • In New Zealand, for example, Māori protocols have been incorporated into national ceremonies and governance, acknowledging the importance of indigenous heritage.
    • Similarly, several nations have enacted laws that protect linguistic diversity, recognizing native languages as official.

    In conclusion, the interplay between ancient values and modern regimes is a delicate dance. As countries continue to evolve, respecting and adapting traditional practices within modern contexts remains a critical challenge. The unity between the ancient and the contemporary may indeed hold the key to sustainable development and cultural harmony.

    For more insights on the subject, explore Cultural Survival Quarterly.

  • Belief Without Permission – When faith exists outside state approval

    Belief Without Permission – When faith exists outside state approval

    Belief Without Permission

    Belief Without Permission: When Faith Exists Outside State Approval

    In many parts of the world, the intersection between state authority and religious freedom is a complex and often contentious issue. This delicate balance raises an essential question: what happens when faith thrives without state approval?

    Throughout history, there have been numerous instances of individuals and communities practicing their beliefs covertly, challenging laws and norms. In regions where state approval is required for religious activities, unregistered religious groups often face significant obstacles, as their practices may not conform to the state-sanctioned version of religion.

    The Global Landscape

    According to a report by the Pew Research Center, “government harassment of religious groups” has been rising, affecting faiths across the global spectrum. Many governments impose strict regulations to control which religious expressions are permissible.

    “Religious freedom is not just about the right to practice one’s faith but also the space to question, explore, and even reinterpret beliefs,” remarks sociologist Karen Armstrong.

    Coping in Silence

    In countries where religious practice is heavily monitored or outright banned, believers often resort to clandestine gatherings. These secret congregations nurture a deep sense of community, offering both spiritual sustenance and social support in the face of governmental scrutiny.

    • China: The government’s control over religious expression has led to the proliferation of unregistered “house churches.”
    • Middle East: In countries with blasphemy laws, individuals practicing a faith different from the state religion often meet in private.

    The Path Forward

    Despite the challenges, these underground networks demonstrate remarkable resilience. By operating outside state-sanctioned parameters, they offer a poignant commentary on the nature of belief itself: a force that cannot be easily contained or censored.

    The story of faith without permission is a testament to human perseverance. It underscores the paradox of religion in the 21st century—both a private journey and a public expression, navigating the tension between personal conviction and state oversight.

    As we continue to grapple with issues of religious freedom and state control, it becomes increasingly vital to advocate for environments where diverse beliefs can flourish openly and without fear.

  • Sacred Targets – Why spiritual communities are singled out by the state

    Sacred Targets: Why Spiritual Communities Are Singled Out by the State

    Throughout history, spiritual communities have often found themselves under the scrutiny of state powers. From ancient times to the modern era, governments have maintained a complex relationship with these groups, sometimes promoting them, at other times, seeking to control or suppress them. This article explores why spiritual communities often become focal points of state attention and regulation.

    The Historical Context

    The relationship between church and state is a tale as old as civilization itself. In ancient Egypt, the Pharaohs were considered divine rulers, blending spiritual authority with political power. Similarly, in medieval Europe, kings and emperors ruled by divine right, and the Catholic Church wielded significant influence over state matters.

    “Religion is the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart of a heartless world, and the soul of soulless conditions. It is the opium of the people.”
    — Karl Marx

    Karl Marx’s observation underscores the power spiritual communities can hold. They offer solace and a sense of belonging, which can be particularly appealing in turbulent times. For the state, such influence can be seen as a double-edged sword—an opportunity for social stability or a threat to political control.

    Why Spiritual Communities Are Singled Out

    There are several reasons why states may single out spiritual communities:

    • Social Influence: Faith-based organizations often wield significant influence over their followers. Mass assemblies, rituals, and religious fervor can mobilize large groups, which may threaten state authority or societal norms.
    • Economic Power: Many spiritual communities control vast resources. From the land holdings of medieval monasteries to the modern-day megachurches, economic power translates to social influence, which the state may seek to regulate.
    • Ideological Conflict: When the teachings or beliefs of a group challenge the dominant ideology, whether it be secularism, capitalism, or a particular political doctrine, the state may view them as a threat that needs to be neutralized.
    • Security Concerns: Governments may regulate or surveil religious groups under the pretext of ensuring national security, fearing extremism, or subversion.

    Case Studies

    The Persecution of the Early Christians

    In the Roman Empire, Christians were persecuted for their refusal to worship the emperor and the Roman gods. Their rapidly growing numbers and the secretive nature of their meetings aroused suspicion and hostility from the Roman authorities.

    “If the Tiber reaches the walls, if the Nile does not rise to the fields, if the sky does not move or the earth yes, if there is famine, if there is plague, the cry at once arises: ‘The Christians to the lion!’”
    — Tertullian, Apology

    The Tibetan Buddhists and the Chinese State

    Since China’s annexation of Tibet in 1950, there has been an ongoing conflict between the Chinese government and Tibetan Buddhists. To this day, Tibetan spiritual practices and expressions of political autonomy are often suppressed.

    The Council on Foreign Relations notes that the Chinese government controls religious affairs and has subjected the populace to assimilation policies, seeing the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism as a threat to their control.

    Modern Surveillance in the Name of Security

    In today’s digital age, several countries have implemented surveillance measures targeting spiritual communities. Religious gatherings are often monitored under the guise of preventing terrorism, leading to debates over privacy and religious freedom.

    For example, in the United States, post-9/11 legislation expanded the state’s powers to monitor Muslim communities. This policy has prompted ongoing discussions about the balance between security and civil liberties.

    The Role of the Internet and Social Media

    The rise of the internet and social media has further complicated state-religion dynamics. On the one hand, these platforms provide spiritual communities with powerful tools to spread their message, mobilize followers, and exert influence across borders. On the other hand, they offer states new means of surveillance and regulation.

    Nina K. Berman, writing in Social Media & Society, points out that digital spaces have become battlegrounds for religious expression and state control.

    Concluding Thoughts

    The state’s focus on spiritual communities is a complex interplay of control, fear, and respect. These groups can act as bastions of social cohesion and moral guidance, making them both allies and threats to government powers. As we move deeper into the 21st century, finding a balance between religious freedom and state interests will be crucial for peaceful coexistence.

    Ultimately, the ongoing dialogue between the sacred and secular worlds shapes cultural, social, and political landscapes worldwide. Understanding this relationship helps us appreciate the nuanced role spiritual communities play in our societies.