Here’s a little thought I had when reading the news of Google’s choice to stop censoring Google.cn. You can read the official blog entry here: http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-approach-to-china.html. So, is it good for Google to make this motion to increase the freedom of information in China? I say yes, and here’s my argument:
Knowledge yields power.
When a person acquires knowledge, he gains power.
More power means greater ability for action.
Action is natural, and action follows the natural.
Love is inherent in the universe.1
Therefore, more love in the world.
1(I believe this, but will leave making an argument for this to a later time.)
Yes, the repercussions of Google censoring search results could result in them being banned or themselves entirely censored in China. However, this is a powerful gesture, and Google has the economic strength to possibly pull such a move. If China ceases access to Google entirely, it will be costly to China’s image. This could impede foreign investment which would impede their own aggressive pursuit of economic success. Entrepreneurs and developers want to invest in environments which are about to boom, which is stagnated in restricting or limiting environments. This creates a tough decision for China, and external awareness of the situation can also have a negative social impact, which again means economic repercussions.