Singapore’s Challenges in the Information Era

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Abstract
• List of Contents
• Preface
• The Press Scene in Singapore
  • Towards Independence (1959-1965)
  • Independence (1965)
    • Singapore's Media Scene Today
    • Summary
  • Journalism in Asia
    • Freedom of the Press in Asia
    • Freedom of the Press
    • Asian Values
    • Asian Journalism
    • Freedom of the Press in Singapore
      • Freedom from the Press
      • Economic Freedom
    • Summary
  • The Internet in Singapore
    • The Internet as Information Medium
    • The Internet in Singapore
    • Summary
  • Censorship and the Internet
    • Legal Regulations
    • Filtering
    • Informal Restrictions for Censorship
      • Self-Censorship in Singapore
      • OB Markers
    • Summary
  • Conclusion
  • List of References

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This thesis aims to analyze the censorship system in Singapore and the challenges it faces in the Information Era. The author explores how the government manages the increasing flow of information, particularly through the internet, while maintaining its political hegemony.

• The historically rooted subordinate role of Singapore's press
• The impact of Asian values on freedom of the press and media control
• The government's strategies for managing the internet, including legal regulations and informal censorship
• The effectiveness of Singapore's censorship system in the face of the New Media and its challenges
• The balance between economic development and political control in Singapore's information policies

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• The Press Scene in Singapore: This chapter provides a historical overview of Singapore's press, highlighting its subordinate role to the government since the People's Action Party's rise to power in 1959. It explores the evolution of the press scene, from the period leading up to independence to the present day.
• Journalism in Asia: This chapter examines the broader context of freedom of the press in Asia, contrasting the Western ideal of a free press with the prevailing views in Southeast Asia. It explores the concept of Asian values and their implications for media control, as well as the unique characteristics of Asian journalism.
• The Internet in Singapore: This chapter analyzes the rapid development of the internet in Singapore and its potential impact on information flow and political control. It discusses the government's efforts to promote the internet as a tool for economic development while simultaneously managing its potential for political dissent.
• Censorship and the Internet: This chapter focuses on the specific methods employed by the Singaporean government to control online content. It explores legal regulations, technical filtering mechanisms, and informal forms of censorship such as self-censorship and the use of OB markers.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This thesis explores the core concepts of censorship, media control, and freedom of the press within the context of Singapore's information policies. Key themes include the role of Asian values, the impact of the internet, legal regulations, informal censorship, and the balance between economic development and political control.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Singaporean government control the media?

The government uses a combination of legal restrictions, technical filters, and informal censorship, such as self-censorship and 'OB markers' (out-of-bounds markers), to manage the press.

What is the role of the People’s Action Party (PAP) in the media scene?

The ruling PAP upholds a media structure where the press is expected to support government policies and nation-building rather than acting as a 'fourth estate'.

What are 'Asian Values' in the context of Singaporean journalism?

Asian values emphasize social harmony and the partnership between the state and the press, often justifying a subordinate role for the media to maintain authoritarian governance and economic growth.

How does Singapore handle internet censorship?

Despite being one of the most networked states, Singapore enacted laws and technical filtering to tame the 'New Media' and prevent open political dissent that could challenge the PAP.

What are 'OB markers'?

'OB markers' stands for 'out-of-bounds markers,' which are informal guidelines indicating topics that are considered too sensitive for public discussion or media coverage.

Why is the Western concept of freedom of the press challenged in Southeast Asia?

Authoritarian politicians argue that different political, cultural, and economic environments necessitate a value system where state stability and economic development take precedence over absolute press freedom.