Ai Weiwei's 'On Censorship' Critiqued as Sketchy and Euphemistic
A review of Ai Weiwei's book 'On Censorship' criticizes its brevity (88 pages) and lack of detailed discussion on free speech battles in the West since 2015, such as cancel culture or online speech regulation. The reviewer notes Ai's grandiloquent declarations but points out omissions, including his own controversial tweet about Jewish control of American sectors, which led to exhibition cancellations. The review questions Ai's generalizations about censorship and indoctrination, suggesting the book fails to describe actual dynamics. Published by Thames & Hudson at £12.99.
Key facts
- Ai Weiwei left China in 2015 after state harassment and detention.
- 'On Censorship' is 88 pages long.
- The book critiques censorship in authoritarian states and Western democracies.
- Ai does not mention cancel culture or online speech regulation.
- Ai's tweet about Jewish control of American media led to exhibition cancellations.
- The tweet was made a month after the October 7 attacks.
- The book is published by Thames & Hudson.
- Hardcover price is £12.99.
Entities
Artists
- Ai Weiwei
Institutions
- Thames & Hudson
Locations
- China
- Israel
- Gaza
- United States