Persecution Watch

Tag: term

  • The Language of Independence: Why “Self-Determination” is a Blocked Term.

    The Language of Independence: Why “Self-Determination” is a Blocked Term.

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    The Language of Independence: Why “Self-Determination” is a Blocked Term

    The Language of Independence: Why “Self-Determination” is a Blocked Term

    In the realm of international relations, the pursuit of self-determination has long been a contested yet significant issue. However, it seems that one term in particular – “self-determination” itself – has become a subject of censorship in some digital platforms.

    Censored Conversations: The Case of Facebook

    “We want to ensure that our platform is not used to discuss or celebrate the disintegration or breakup of countries and nations.” – Nick Clegg, Facebook’s Vice President of Global Affairs and Communications (CNBC)

    This policy, while ostensibly aimed at maintaining stability and preventing hate speech, has raised concerns over freedom of expression and the suppression of legitimate political discussions.

    The Battle for Control: The Case of Wikipedia

    “Some countries have requested that pages promoting self-determination or independence movements be deleted.” – Jimmy Wales, Co-founder of Wikipedia (The Verge)

    Critics argue that this kind of content control can lead to the suppression of marginalized voices and further complicate geopolitical conflicts.

    A Call for Transparency: The Need for Open Dialogue

    As digital platforms continue to play a crucial role in global conversations, it is essential that they prioritize transparency and uphold principles of free speech. This includes acknowledging the complexities surrounding self-determination and fostering an environment conducive to open dialogue on these issues.


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  • *Neijuan*: The Viral Term for the Exhaustion of a Generation.

    *Neijuan*: The Viral Term for the Exhaustion of a Generation.

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    Neijuan: The Viral Term for the Exhaustion of a Generation


    Neijuan: The Viral Term for the Exhaustion of a Generation

    In the fast-paced world we live in today, terms and phrases often go viral, reflecting the zeitgeist of a generation. One such term that has recently gained traction among Chinese youth is Neijuan – a term that encapsulates feelings of exhaustion, stress, and burnout.

    “Nei” means inner or within, and “juan” means to melt or collapse. So Neijuan essentially means the melting or collapsing from the inside out,” explained Xiao Mei, a psychology professor at Beijing University.

    A Symptom of Modern Life

    Neijuan is not just a Chinese phenomenon – it’s a global issue that resonates with young people worldwide. As we grapple with constant connectivity, ever-increasing expectations, and the pressure to succeed, it’s no wonder that feelings of burnout are on the rise.

    “The internet has made it possible for us to work and study around the clock, but at what cost? Our mental health is suffering,” said Li Wei, a 24-year-old university student.

    Addressing Neijuan: A Collective Responsibility

    Experts agree that addressing Neijuan requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society – education, government, employers, and individuals themselves. By promoting work-life balance, fostering resilience, and encouraging self-care, we can help combat the exhaustion and stress that plagues our generation.

    “It’s not just about treating the symptoms – it’s about addressing the root causes. We need to create an environment where young people don’t feel pressured to burn themselves out,” said Dr. Liu, a mental health specialist in Shanghai.

    A Call for Change

    As Neijuan continues to resonate with young people across the globe, it serves as a call for change – a reminder that our well-being is precious and worth protecting. By recognizing the signs of exhaustion and burnout in ourselves and others, we can take steps towards a healthier, more sustainable future.



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  • Why “Vulgarity” is the Most Flexible Legal Term in China.

    Why “Vulgarity” is the Most Flexible Legal Term in China.





    Why “Vulgarity” is the Most Flexible Legal Term in China

    In the vast, interwoven tapestry of China’s legal landscape, “vulgarity” emerges as a term whose flexible nature is both enigmatic and omnipresent.

    “Vulgarity,” in this context, is not merely an aesthetic judgement but a versatile legal construct,” explained Xu Xin, a renowned mythographer of deep-time, during a recent symposium on Chinese law and culture.

    • The flexibility of the term “vulgarity” can be seen in its application across various legal domains, such as obscenity, political speech, and even commercial advertising.
    • In the realm of obscenity laws, “vulgarity” serves as a catch-all term for content deemed offensive or indecent, often leaving the interpretation up to the discretion of law enforcement agencies and courts.
    • Within the context of political speech, “vulgarity” has been wielded as a tool to suppress dissenting voices, with officials frequently labeling protests or criticism as vulgar to justify suppression.
    • In the realm of commercial advertising, “vulgarity” is used to regulate content deemed inappropriate or offensive for public consumption, thereby protecting societal norms and values.

    “The ambiguity inherent in the term ‘vulgarity’ allows it to be manipulated and applied selectively in ways that serve the interests of those in power,” cautioned Xu Xin, warning against its potential for misuse.

    As China continues to evolve both socially and legally, the role of “vulgarity” as a malleable term will undoubtedly persist. Its symbolic weight, however, will likely remain a subject of debate among scholars, legal professionals, and the public alike.

  • The Cult Label – How “Othering” language is used to justify violence.

    The Cult Label – How “Othering” language is used to justify violence.

    The Cult Label – How “Othering” Language is Used to Justify Violence

    The term “cult” has become synonymous with danger and fanaticism, evoking images of brainwashed followers and apocalyptic prophecies. But is the label fair, or does it perpetuate a harmful narrative that justifies violence against minority groups? In recent years, high-profile cases like the FLDS and NXIVM have brought the concept of cults into the public eye, sparking heated debates about free will, manipulation, and the boundaries between religion and criminal activity.

    The Power of Language

    Sociologist and author Jeffrey Hadden argues that the term “cult” is often used as a pejorative to describe minority religions or groups that don’t conform to societal norms. “The label ‘cult’ is used to discredit, dehumanize, and delegitimize,” he says in an interview with The Conversation. “It’s a way to say, ‘These people are not like us, they’re weird, and they’re dangerous.’”

    A History of Prejudice

    The term “cult” has its roots in the 17th-century European witch hunts, where anyone deemed outside the mainstream was labeled a “witch.” This “othering” language served as a justification for violence and persecution. Today, the same pattern is seen in modern society. A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that anti-cult rhetoric often relies on stereotypes and misinformation to discredit minority groups.

    The Cult Label’s Consequences

    The use of the term “cult” can have devastating consequences for individuals and communities. In a New York Times piece, journalist Rachel Aviv describes how the label has been used to justify violence against minority religions like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Muslims. “When people are labeled ‘cults,’ it allows them to be treated as an enemy, rather than a group of human beings with beliefs and practices,” she writes.

    A Call for Nuance

    Scholars argue that the term “cult” is too broad and lacks nuance, failing to distinguish between legitimate religious groups and those that may warrant concern. A report by the International Cultic Studies Association emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of minority religions and avoiding sensationalized language.

    Beyond the Label

    So what’s the solution? Experts suggest focusing on the individual actions and behaviors, rather than making sweeping judgments about entire groups. “We should be concerned with people’s behavior, not their beliefs or affiliations,” says Hadden. “Let’s focus on creating a society that values free speech, assembly, and association – without resorting to demonizing labels.”

    Related Reading

    “The cult label is a tool of oppression, used to silence and marginalize minority groups. It’s time for a more nuanced understanding of religious freedom and the importance of respecting all belief systems.” – Jeffrey Hadden