Self-censorship: Singapore's shame

FOR a country that is economically advanced, modern and positioned as a global city, Singapore resonates with a climate of fear.

Democracy is often misrepresented, misunderstood or treated as a dirty word. When it comes to politics, it is pure paranoia. Few question why by-elections are not called or why thepresidential process ends in no contest. Instead, what is common is the practice of self-censorship.

Frequently, it ends in the censorship of others. It is interesting to see that self-censorship operates without direct intervention of the ruling party. What makes most citizens, residents and foreigners living and working in Singapore behave in this way? Why does the majority avoid alternative political expression? How do they censor themselves and others?

In such an environment, what are the chances of legitimising alternative political expression and action?

Finally, what repercussions do this uniquely Singapore self-censorship hold for the Republic's future? This book addresses these questions and evaluates its implications.

The author, James Gomez graduated with honours in political science, National University of Singapore and holds an MA in Politics, University of Essex.

Currently a senior researcher in politics, he is co-editor of a forthcoming book titled "Fissures of Democracy: The Political Impact of the Asian Crisis".

A member of the Roundtable - a Singaporean policy discussion group - James Gomez is known for his critical views on political reform.

At the Ministry of Community Development's Feedback Unit, he is a member of the Political Matters/International Relations Group.

His articles, reviews and commentaries on politics have been published in academic journals, newspapers, magazines and on the Internet.

Orders for this book can be made with the distributor: 
Select Books Pte Ltd, 19 Tanglin Road #03-25 Tanglin Shopping Centre, Singapore. 247909.

For sales and retail enquires contact: 
Ms Clara Pong (General Manager) Tel: +65 732 1515 Fax: +65 736 0855. 
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