There have already been several people arguing that restricting access to (foreign state) propaganda is against the (individual) right of free speech. I trust you will see the inherent contradiction(s). Nevertheless, let’s assume, for the purpose of this blog, that these people actually believe in what they’re arguing.
The above is an example of the paradox of tolerance, a concept developed by Karl Popper (1902-1994), “one of the 20th century’s most influential philosophers of science“.
“The paradox of tolerance states that if a society is tolerant without limit, its ability to be tolerant is eventually seized or destroyed by the intolerant. Karl Popper described it as the seemingly paradoxical idea that in order to maintain a tolerant society, the society must retain the right to be intolerant of intolerance.”
Wikipedia
My 2019 blog The paradox of information, was about Mark Zuckerberg‘s speech in which he argued that Facebook’s unregulated platform of (dis and mis-) information is to be preferred over the Chinese information model, mandated by its government. This paradox of information also applies to my first paragraph.
The paradox of tolerance and the paradox of information are, however, not limited to the above.
We find similar paradoxes in the belief system Religion. The Political Islam claims the right to worship in foreign countries, while denying that right to other religions in their home countries.
The belief system Data-Info shows the same characteristics: claiming the right to spread information in foreign countries, while denying that right to (i) its own citizens, and (ii) foreign media in their home countries (eg, China, North Korea, Russia).
In times of military conflict, like the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the above is turbocharged. Hence, we also speak about an information war.
Actually, the solution to the above is surprisingly simple: if countries use the principle of reciprocity then there is no need for limitations or restrictions (eg, information, religion). In the absence of reciprocity then a society must retain and use the right to be intolerant of intolerance (eg, Political Islam, Russia).
The same principle of reciprocity also applies to business, trade and international relations and treaties.
“The Golden Rule is the principle of treating others as one wants to be treated. It is a maxim that is found in most religions and cultures. It can be considered an ethic of reciprocity in some religions, although different religions treat it differently.” (Wiki)
Duel (1985) by Propaganda
artists, lyrics, video, Wiki-1, Wiki-2
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless in quotes or stated otherwise.
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