Proscriptivism

Proscriptivism, in essence, is the philosophy or practice of forbidding or condemning specific activities, practices, or ideas, often through the imposition of rules, laws, or social pressure. It frequently involves the active suppression or exclusion of that which is deemed undesirable or harmful, reflecting a belief in controlling or eliminating what is perceived as negative or dangerous. This approach can be applied to various domains, from political ideologies and artistic expression to social behaviors and technological advancements, with the underlying motivation being the preservation of order, morality, or a particular societal framework. It often stands in opposition to principles of free speech, tolerance, and open inquiry, placing value on constraint and censorship.

Proscriptivism meaning with examples

• The totalitarian regime's proscriptivism manifested in strict censorship of the press and suppression of any dissenting political views. The government actively banned books, music, and art that challenged the established ideology, seeking to control the narrative and maintain its grip on power. This stringent proscriptivism stifled intellectual growth and limited the public's access to diverse perspectives, creating a climate of fear and obedience to state-mandated ideals.
• The religious community's proscriptivism led to the exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals and the condemnation of practices that deviated from their interpretation of scripture. Social gatherings that contradicted moral edicts of the community were discouraged or outright banned, emphasizing traditional family structures. This proscriptivism limited social interactions and resulted in individuals feeling shunned or ostracized. The strict enforcement created an environment where individual autonomy and acceptance suffered.
• Technological proscriptivism, such as the banning of specific social media platforms or AI technologies based on concerns of misinformation and potential harm is an evolving practice. The aim can be for greater safety, where governments and institutions try to maintain a safe digital and information environment, This raises questions around censorship and the freedom of information with concerns over potentially infringing individual rights and freedom of expression.
• Cultural proscriptivism is evident in art, where certain themes or styles may be actively discouraged or even censored. For instance, a government might proscribe artistic works that are critical of the ruling party or that promote what it considers immoral behavior. Artists who produce such pieces may be subject to criticism, punishment, or their work might be banned outright, thus limiting freedom of artistic expression and the public's exposure to diverse artistic approaches.
• Educational proscriptivism manifests in policies that restrict the teaching of certain subjects or viewpoints, such as evolution, critical race theory, or differing perspectives on historical events. Schools may be forbidden from including particular books in their curricula, or the curriculum might only be allowed to reflect a specific viewpoint, such as that of a particular political faction. This form of proscriptivism curtails intellectual freedom and limits the exposure of students to a broad range of perspectives and diverse viewpoints.