This lecture discusses the concepts of freedom of expression, freedom of speech and freedom of the press. I argue they are not the same thing. I also talk about freedom of speech and freedom of the press under capitalism and conditions of class struggle. I am a Marxist, after all.
The OSCE considers freedom of expression a fundamental human right. This freedom may only be limited in order to safeguard other basic rights, such as human dignity, for a very good reason: freedom of expression is the foundation for other human rights, especially freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly as well as academic freedom. Without the freedom to voice opinions publicly and freely receive information, all other freedoms would not exist.
The side event addressed the constitutional implementation of freedom of expression in the OSCE region. The primary focus will be on the treatment of freedom of expression as a negative and individual right, which with respect to the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” (UNDHR) can only be granted to humans. Competing concepts of group rights as well as hate speech and blasphemy laws will be considered in light of the UNDHR and individual rights.
Its not easy being a journalist. Especially in my home country, Kenya. There are constant challenges around the profession, which highlights the effects of press freedom around the world.
The OSCE considers freedom of expression a fundamental human right. This freedom may only be limited in order to safeguard other basic rights, such as human dignity, for a very good reason: freedom of expression is the foundation for other human rights, especially freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly as well as academic freedom. Without the freedom to voice opinions publicly and freely receive information, all other freedoms would not exist.
The side event addressed the constitutional implementation of freedom of expression in the OSCE region. The primary focus will be on the treatment of freedom of expression as a negative and individual right, which with respect to the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” (UNDHR) can only be granted to humans. Competing concepts of group rights as well as hate speech and blasphemy laws will be considered in light of the UNDHR and individual rights.
Its not easy being a journalist. Especially in my home country, Kenya. There are constant challenges around the profession, which highlights the effects of press freedom around the world.
This session will look at challenges related to free speech online. We will address restrictions to freedom of expression from technological challenges (filters, surveillance techniques, blocking access to websites) to the introduction of new laws that curb digital freedom. We will also cover the increasing trend of takedown requests, the phenomenon of privatisation of censorship as well as threats, intimidation and violence against citizen journalists and bloggers. Through detailed case studies, participants will have the opportunity to explore the various implications of online censorship for media freedom. Case studies will include examples from countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkey, Belarus, India and Brazil.
Summary: There has often been a demand for absolute freedom of speech from various interest groups. However scope and limits of freedom of speech and expression are limited by its constraints. Hence absolute freedom of speech and expression is only a mirage.
Author: Dr Mahesh C. Jain is a practicing medical doctor and has written the book “Encounter of Science with Philosophy – A synthetic view”. The book begins with first chapter devoted to scientifically valid concept of God and then explains cosmic phenomena right from origin of nature and universe up to origin of life and evolution of man. The book includes several chapters devoted to auxiliary concepts and social sciences as corollaries to the concept of God. This is the only book which deals with origin of nature and universe from null or Zero or nothing.
http://www.sciencengod.com
http://curatio.in
Social Media and Cyber Law in India By Prashant MaliAdv Prashant Mali
Social Media and Cyber Law for DSCI Infosec event - Prashant Mali
Section 66A of the IT Act,2000 and freedom of expression on internet and social networking websites
Perspective ECtHR - CJEU European Constitutional Dimension
Prof. dr. Dirk Voorhoof
CMPF Summer School 2013 for Journalists and Media Practitioners
http://cmpf.eui.eu/training/summer-school-2013.aspx
This session will look at challenges related to free speech online. We will address restrictions to freedom of expression from technological challenges (filters, surveillance techniques, blocking access to websites) to the introduction of new laws that curb digital freedom. We will also cover the increasing trend of takedown requests, the phenomenon of privatisation of censorship as well as threats, intimidation and violence against citizen journalists and bloggers. Through detailed case studies, participants will have the opportunity to explore the various implications of online censorship for media freedom. Case studies will include examples from countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkey, Belarus, India and Brazil.
Summary: There has often been a demand for absolute freedom of speech from various interest groups. However scope and limits of freedom of speech and expression are limited by its constraints. Hence absolute freedom of speech and expression is only a mirage.
Author: Dr Mahesh C. Jain is a practicing medical doctor and has written the book “Encounter of Science with Philosophy – A synthetic view”. The book begins with first chapter devoted to scientifically valid concept of God and then explains cosmic phenomena right from origin of nature and universe up to origin of life and evolution of man. The book includes several chapters devoted to auxiliary concepts and social sciences as corollaries to the concept of God. This is the only book which deals with origin of nature and universe from null or Zero or nothing.
http://www.sciencengod.com
http://curatio.in
Social Media and Cyber Law in India By Prashant MaliAdv Prashant Mali
Social Media and Cyber Law for DSCI Infosec event - Prashant Mali
Section 66A of the IT Act,2000 and freedom of expression on internet and social networking websites
Perspective ECtHR - CJEU European Constitutional Dimension
Prof. dr. Dirk Voorhoof
CMPF Summer School 2013 for Journalists and Media Practitioners
http://cmpf.eui.eu/training/summer-school-2013.aspx
Freedom of Press around the World - Rundown (in slides) of freedom of press cases in India, USA, UK, Egypt, Russia, Pakistan, Brazil, Iran, North Korea etc
Some philosophical and moral thoughts at the occasion of the attack on Charlie Hebdo, prepared for a workshop of the research centre Cemeso of the VUB.
Freedom of Expression in the Democratic WorldAniket Chauhan
The presentation discusses the fundamental importance of freedom of speech and expression in democratic societies. It emphasizes that this right allows individuals to express their views, opinions, beliefs, and convictions freely through various means such as speech, writing, and printing. The presentation highlights how freedom of expression is enshrined in the Indian Constitution and plays a crucial role in fostering informed citizens, holding those in power accountable, nurturing creativity across various fields, and ensuring fair elections. Additionally, it underscores the role of the media in providing accurate information, promoting transparency, and safeguarding democracy.
Writing Sample: "Collective and Individual Rights"Michal Antonov
Undergraduate Paper about the difference between collective and individual rights based on the works of Karl Marx, Robert Mill, and Alexis de Tocqueville
Communication, contempt and privilege 2013 Martin Hirst
A lecture for journalism and media students on the Australian contempt of court laws, privilege and freedom of speech.
It covers contempt of court, the rights and responsibilities of the media in reporting on and about the legal system and explores absolute and qualified privilege
Notes and tips on Australian defamation law and defences. A guide for journalists and communication professionals who want to stay out of legal trouble around libel issues.
The ethico legal paradox and Harry Hotpants in Las VegasMartin Hirst
A lecture in July 2013 on the ethico-legal paradox, illustrated with an extended riff on Prince Harry's nude romp in Las Vegas. The lecture also mentions the 2013 Westpac media release hoax involving Jonathon Moylan and coal seam gas.
An introduction to writing news that goes beyond the inverted pyramid structure.
News is first and foremost an intellectual exercise; reviews news styles - narrative sentences; hourglass; the "DNA of documentary" (brief intro - see other presentations for more detail)
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
This is a presentation by Dada Robert in a Your Skill Boost masterclass organised by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan (EFSS) on Saturday, the 25th and Sunday, the 26th of May 2024.
He discussed the concept of quality improvement, emphasizing its applicability to various aspects of life, including personal, project, and program improvements. He defined quality as doing the right thing at the right time in the right way to achieve the best possible results and discussed the concept of the "gap" between what we know and what we do, and how this gap represents the areas we need to improve. He explained the scientific approach to quality improvement, which involves systematic performance analysis, testing and learning, and implementing change ideas. He also highlighted the importance of client focus and a team approach to quality improvement.
1.4 modern child centered education - mahatma gandhi-2.pptx
Freedom of the press is not the same as freedom of expression
1.
What is freedom of the press
A quick guide to “freedom” and” unfreedom” in communication theory
A/Prof Martin Hirst,
Deakin University, July 2013
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2. The Orwellian moment
Free speech is about
speaking truth to power
Gramsci’s notion of “good
sense”
NOT “common sense”
Freedom of speech is
universal, but it is
restricted in many ways
Moral restrictions
Economic restrictions
Political restrictions
This is the Orwellian moment in
history. politics, political ideas
and ideology are not what they
seem and confusion rules.
Where ruling ideas are internally
conflicted, as they are put
forward in the media and through
education, free speech takes on
a new dimension.
Ticktin 2009, p. 524)
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3. Freedom of expression, freedom of
speech and freedom of the press
Freedom of expression is a fundamental condition
of human existence – it is inherent
Freedom of speech is constrained by social
conditions
Freedom of the press exists only for those who own
one
The ruling class no longer really needs freedom of
speech for subordinate groups
The capitalist press is ‘free’ to publish propaganda
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4. Freedom of expression
Article 19
Everyone has the right to freedom of
opinion and expression; this right includes
freedom to hold opinions without
interference and to seek, receive and
impart information and ideas through any
media and regardless of frontiers.
The UN’s 1948 Universal Declaration of Human
Rights
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Freedom of
expression is held to
be universal.
A right that everyone
has, regardless of any
other condition.
5. Article 19
Freedom of
expression to be
effective must rest
on other inalienable
human rights
The right to work
Free from violence
No hunger, etc
Everyone has the right to freedom of
opinion and expression; this right
includes freedom to hold opinions
without interference and to seek,
receive and impart information and
ideas through any media and
regardless of frontiers.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
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6. Freedom of communication:
a materialist schema
1. We communicate to survive as a species
2. all class societies exhibit shared dynamics in relation to control of
communicative behaviour – favour ruling class
3. capitalist relations of production determine the specific political-
economic dynamics and contradictions in communicative behaviour that
are overlaid on but not do not wholly displace (1) and (2)
4. Marxism recognises the class interest of the proletariat in relation to
freedom of communication, its ideological expressions under capitalism
and in relation to developing political consciousness in subordinate
classes
(Adapted from Macnair 2009, p. 567)
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7. Marxism & Freedom of Communication
You can protest all you want, so long as it is ineffective
Media applies ridicule – ‘Occupy’ – ‘keep off the grass’
[C]ommunication is a relation between humans, not the
action of an isolated individual. My freedom of
communication is impaired if I may write, but may not
publish; if I may sing satirical songs, but only in my bath.
(Macnair 2009, p. 569)
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8. Capitalism and freedom of expression
Absolutely agree that freedom of expression is a
fundamental human right
It’s all fine in theory, but what about in the real
world?
The right to freedom of expression is experienced
under social conditions of the class struggle
There is a fundamental class inequality in the
application of any universal right enshrined in the
UN Declaration of Human Rights
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9. Materialism and freedom expression
The universality
of human rights
cannot be
expressed
within the limits
of capitalism
Freedom
expression is a
ruling class
freedom in a
class society
The term „freedom of expression‟ can be
understood as the expression of the full potential
of the talents and abilities of the individual.
It is clear, that in this sense, it can only be
expressed in a socialist society.
It is, in fact, one definition of a socialist society.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 513)
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10. Communication and accumulation
Scientific labour
Discovery and research
Technical labour
Economic exploitation of science
Managerial labour
Command and control
Intellectual labour
Reproduction of S/r
Ideological labour for
capital
there is a necessary conflict
in capitalism between the
need for freedom of
expression for the purposes
of accumulation and the
need to maintain control
over the same process of
accumulation both for the
individual capitalist and for
the class as a whole.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 516)
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11.
Political economy of
free speech
„the analysis of the various
subtle and less subtle political
economic forms of control over
modes of expression and of
criticism within capitalism and
of capitalism’
(Ticktin 2009, p. 515).
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12. Marxism and free speech
The class which has the means of
material production at its disposal
has control at the same time over
the means of mental production,
so that thereby, generally
speaking, the ideas of those who
lack the means of mental
production are subject to it.
(Marx & Engels: The German Ideology)
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13. Free Speech is a class issue too
The right to assembly
Union access to
workplaces
IR
Unfair Work Australia
Strike-breaking
Fascism
Freedom of speech or expression or
communication (however you want to
call it) is dependent on power, control,
resources and access (Macnair 2009).
In a capitalist world all these equations
are in fact unequal; there is a ruling
class and there are subordinate
classes.
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14. Free speech a revolutionary demand
Emerging bourgeois class
demanded free speech so
that it could organise
itself against autocracy
Needed allies amongst
proletarians and allies
For a while at least
Marx & Engels both took
issue with censorship in
their own daily
journalism and other
writing
Also argued for an
independent workers’
press
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15. The bourgeois origins
of the free press
Newspapers were critical to the
organising of the bourgeois
during their revolutions of the
17th & 18th centuries
Editors among the first organic
intellectuals of the bourgeoisie
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The French Revolution, the bourgeois revolution,
par excellence, placed the question of the rights of
man on the agenda.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 516)
16. The property franchise still exists
In late capitalist society the
right to speak has been
expropriated and made
beholden, in most cases, to
property rights
Commercial in confidence
Trademarking and branding
State rights to secrecy and
diplomacy
Cabinet confidentiality
The bourgeoisie needs freedom
of expression but it also
destroys it in the name of capital
itself.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 522)
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17. Freedom of expression no longer
Need to control accumulation overrides
commitment to freedom of expression
Vertical control over media messages to subordinate
classes
Not just simple ‘manufacture of consent’
The dialectic of the front page
Informed horizontal control to manage its affairs
‘executive committee of the bourgeoisie –
propaganda department
once a ruling class cements its control and firmly grasps the
reins of political and economic power, it no longer needs to
exert the universality of human rights in practice
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18. Simple commodity speech
Advertising
Marketing, PR
Sponsorships
Advertorial
Product Placement
Political speech and the
‘permanent campaign’
Naomi Klien ‘shock
doctrine’
Spin and ‘fake news’
A candidate for president of the
United States today has to
spend tens of millions of dollars
a week for more than 52 weeks
to have any chance at all of
even being one of two rival
contenders.
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19. The unfreedom of the press
Freedom of the press is contradictory
in a capitalist society because it is
freedom of ownership that relies on the
„unfreedom‟ of those who do not own a
press.
Freedom of the press in a capitalist
social formation implies and, in fact,
depends on, a lack of freedom of
communication for the working class.
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20. No free speech in the news industry
formal democratic structures, institutions and principles in a
capitalist society are not enough to guarantee freedom of
expression for everyone
a glaring contradiction that is visible to Marxists, but that is
generally hidden behind an ideological veil of free speech, or
more specifically ‘freedom of the press’
this paper starts from a critical political economy approach to
the major news media and commodified news information.
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21. The social relations of news production
The distinctive feature of capitalist dynamics in
relation to communication is the fact that
communication itself becomes a sphere of
capitalist activity.
(Macnair 2009, p. 574)
The hierarchy of the market comes
to be expressed in bourgeois
intellectual and cultural institutions.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 526)
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22. The right to publish
Within capitalist relations of
production the right to publish
information and distribute it
freely is tied directly to a
property right.
Ownership of the means of
news production gives that
fraction of capital or ruling
class the right to publish
This is a direct translation of
the bourgeois property relation
to ownership of capital
Freedom of the press is
manifestly specific to
capitalism and the period
of the emergence of
capitalism.
(Macnair 2009, p. 568)
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23. Press freedom is a property
right
Freedom of the press has an
economic imperative under
capitalism
Editorial functions subsumed
under commercial functions
Media is interlocked with
other forms of capital
“Freedom of the press is
guaranteed only to those who
own one.”
A J Liebling
“The press is not only free, it is powerful.
That power is ours. It is the proudest that
man can enjoy.”
Benjamin Disraeli
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24. The right to edit
Editors are the senior managers of ideological apparatus
on behalf of capital
Well-paid, subject to whim of proprietor or board
All, or at least most, tend to behave in accordance with
the requirements of capital
Within the relations of production they perform a
managerial and political role on behalf of social capital
Advertising + the feigned editorial independence of a
‘free press’ are the glue that hold it together
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25. Journalism and the labour process
Newsworkers occupy several discrete and overlapping
fractions of the new middle class
The work of journalists at the coal face of producing news
and current affairs is proletarianised
Their class location with economic relations of news
production aligns them with working class interests (union
membership for example)
Their location within the social relations of news production
sees a partial alignment with ruling class interests
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26. Contradictory class positions
News workers – new middle
class / petty bourgeois /
At top of scale managing
capital interests
Directing resources
Economic relationship of wage
labour
Productive and unproductive
– paid out of circulation
At bottom of scale
(proleterianising?)
Social relations of production
complicated
The attitudes, doctrines and
theories propounded by the
capitalist ‘intelligentsia’ reflect
their contradictory situation.
(Ticktin 2009, p. 518)
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27. Bosses slam media rules
Media reforms proposed by
Communications Minister Stephen
Conroy
A Public Interest Media Advocate
(PIMA)
A ‘public interest’ test for media
mergers
A statutory commitment to
maintain journalistic standards
Threat of losing a privilege in
relation to privacy law
“Australian media bosses have
slammed the Gillard government’s
wide-ranging changes to media rules,
saying a new regulator to oversee
print and online news content and a
public interest test for mergers are
unnecessary and a threat to free
speech.”
AFR, 13 March 2013, p.1
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28. Press tsar to regulate standards
Regulator at ‘arms length’
from government control
Australian Press Council
comes out against the
legislation
LABOR has infuriated
publishers by proposing a new
federal regulator to oversee
press standards and rule on
mergers, as part of a wider
overhaul to be rushed through
parliament, despite fears it
could trigger a $4 billion
television takeover.
The Australian, 13 March 2013,p.1
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29. Free press in the liberal-
democratic paradigm
A free press is an essential feature of
a healthy liberal democracy.
Media outlets should always feel free
to criticise politicians and others in
power without any fear of
retribution.
James Paterson, 13 March, 2013
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30. MEAA response to Conroy
‘sweeping, intrusive and fail to respond to changes
in our industry
Does not address real concern about attacks on
freedom of the press:
‘the growing practice by wealthy Australians
attempting to use injunctions, defamation and
other court actions to prevent proper journalistic
investigations’
Opposed to PIMA, supports industry self-regulation
Does not protect journalists who refuse to divulge
sources in line with the Code of Ethics
Does not protect whistleblowers
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31. Freedom of the press in Britain is freedom to print
such of the proprietor's prejudices as the advertiser's
won't object to
Helen Swaffer
There are laws to protect the freedom of the press's
speech, but none that are worth anything to protect
the people from the press
Mark Twain
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Editor's Notes
At the most abstract, 1) gives us the universal idea that communication is a necessary component of human existence. Communication is central to the development of a society’s productive and reproductive resources at both physical and intellectual levels. Element 2) provides the understanding that all class societies – based on exploitation, accumulation and an inequality of political power – have shared dynamics. This simply suggests (as a basic tenet of materialism and Marxism) that class inequality requires social formations to behave in certain ways and that there is a common set of techniques and rituals that define state control in societies of unequal distribution of wealth and resources.The third element brings us closer to an analysis of our concrete situation within the period of capitalism in decline and asks us to examine the specificity of class controls over communicative activity within a defined capitalist social formation The fourth element appears to be a further abstraction in that it asks us to consider the class interests of the oppressed and exploited class. However, it is concrete in the sense that it opens up for analysis the specific forms that a struggle over freedom of communication takes within late capitalist social formations. The ideological ‘expression’ of the concrete contradictions surrounding freedom of communication in a capitalist society take the form of contested and heavily ideologised positions around ‘freedom of speech’ and ‘freedom of expression’. In it’s most concrete form within capitalist social formations this contradictory exposition of freedom of communication takes the explicit form of ‘freedom of the press’ (Macnair 2009, p. 567). Freedom of the press is contradictory in a capitalist society because it is freedom of ownership of a printing press (or broadcast outlet) and it relies, for its efficacy, on the ‘unfreedom’ of those who do not own such means of communicative production. In other words, freedom of the press in a capitalist social formation implies and, in fact, depends on, a lack of freedom of communication for the working class.
For capitalism as a whole, continuing accumulation and expansion of social capital requires a system of open information and cooperation – the scientific basis of increasing labour productivity. However, simultaneously, individual capitalists rely on secrecy and today, industrial espionage and sabotage. The NDS scandal surrounding the Murdoch empire, for example indicates the lengths an enterprise will go to in order to secure a material commercial advantage over its rivals.
The form of ‘market’ and its ideological consequences overlay every aspect of capitalism. Formal adherence to an ideology of market superiority and naturalism (Adam Smith’s ‘invisible hand’) is both a security blanket and a Trojan horse for capital.The hierarchy of the market comes to be expressed in bourgeois intellectual and cultural institutions.(Ticktin 2009, p. 526)Hillel Ticktin very aptly describes the role of the modern organic bourgeois intellectual as that of the facilitator, the oil on the squeaky wheel that mutes the distracting noise and keeps the system moving, so that it ‘glides by’ without arousing any suspicion or animosity in the minds of the oppressed and exploited; ‘ a kind of therapy with the present’ (Ticktin 2009, p. 527) The distinctive feature of capitalist dynamics in relation to communication is the fact that communication itself becomes a sphere of capitalist activity.(Macnair 2009, p. 574)Communication becomes commodified and subject to the rules of generalized commodity production.