Unit 24: Writing for Television & Video - censorship and libel

Censorship can be a tricky opponent for a writer. Censorship largely is the restriction of ideas and opinions within media today. The level and sensitivity of censorship largely depends on the society in which the production is being broadcast. For example if you were say broadcasting in a highly sensitive society with wide spread religious beliefs, you would have to be a lot more careful about what you say, how you say it and when you say it. For example a highly Muslim country like Pakistan would, one would imagine, have a much higher thresh hold than say relatively laid back England.
Another thing that can effect censorship is the political climate of the time. You may not be able to say things against the regime in power at all. It literally would be forbidden from a power much higher than just the broadcasters guidelines. Examples include Communist China, only recently they forbade Google from they're country as it didnt tie in with what the government wanted to be. So for a creative writer to say what he wants to, get his point across in these climates would be extremely difficult and would often, if they were prepared to take the risk, be subtle hints at best.
As for England censorship, while definitely something to think about, is largely slack and forgiving. Mostly falling down to the time its aired and the watershed of the channel. As well as the projected audience. Rude Tube is hardly going to be broadcast and 3:30 PM on BBC 1.

Libel falls under the same umbrella of slander. Its the implication about a character in a negative manner without the use of words. Usually through print or pictures. Often its the implication of an opinion or stereotype or alleged claims with out voicing them literally at all.
While libel isnt a registered "crime" it is referred to a public court and will 9 times out of 10 end up in a monetary fine to compensate for damages to character or reputation.
While it isnt portrayed as such a terrible thing, alot of writers from every field be it tv, film or science journals, a lot of writers are afraid to publish they're full views and opinions through fear of a court case for libel claims.
Its definitely a area of law that writers in all veins of media need to consider. A successful libel claim surely cant look good on anyone.