I occassionally find myself having to explain to people what censorship is. So, for easy reference I've compiled a number of definitions from authoritative sources. Please feel free to link and share as needed: Oxford World Encyclopedia (Oxford University Press) Censorship: System whereby a government-appointed body or official claims the right to protect the public interest by influencing the release of any item of mass communication. The World of Criminal Justice (Facts on File) Censorship occurs when a government, business, or individual suppresses speech, writing, art, or any other form of communication. The New Oxford Companion to Law (Oxford University Press) Censorship commonly refers to the determination by a public official that certain material is unsuitable for publication or performance on grounds such as morality, religion, politics, or national security. The material may be banned outright or its circulation restricted to those thought less suscep...