Ai Weiwei Decries Western Self-Censorship, Says Society is Timid About Questioning
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Ai Weiwei says political censorship in the West today is "exactly the same" as under Chairman Mao in China. He says society has become "timid" about questioning things.
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His recent art exhibition was cancelled in London following social media posts he made about Israel-Gaza, which he sees as more censorship.
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Weiwei says a "cultural revolution" is trying to destroy anybody with different attitudes, not just clear opinions. He sees censorship broadly across universities, media, etc.
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Weiwei has frequently criticized China's human rights and democracy record. He left China in 2015 and mainly lives in Portugal now.
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Weiwei says artists have been "corrupted by capitalism" and are just seeking money and fame, not defending free expression enough.