The Quiet Self-censorship Muzzle

Today, restrictions, limitations, and discipline on free speech are more subtle, and more brutal, than outright bans.

Social retribution, political intimidation, and economic pressure are the cost of some words has increased, a comedian, journalist, or even a student can still speak.

Because those in positions of power, whether corporate or political, have learned to control not only what is said but also what is dared to be said, the muzzle is the hesitation before speaking, the calculation of consequences, and the quiet self-censorship that implies speech is freer on paper than it is in practice.