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Indeed. They don't need to restrict speech or monitor much, when they've convinced people to censor themselves. If I lived in an area that was repressive, I'd probably make sure I never said anything bad about the government.

One of the things I like about my country is that I can call my government out when they make bad choices and I can even organize a protest to show my displeasure.

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As an Aussie, I don’t necessarily want to overthrow my government (what’s a circus without the clowns), but I do like the fact I can safely voice my displeasure if and when I feel it’s useful.

Having moved to Taiwan after spending many years in Beijing, the feeling of a weight being lifted off is palpable. I don’t miss those towering windowless soviet-style government building one bit.

I have traveled a great deal and seen some pretty oppressed people. I can live most anywhere and one of the reasons I choose to live here is because I am not oppressed here.

Like you, I have no desire to overthrow my government. I do like to complain about then, however.

As for living somewhere oppressive, I don't think I'd do well in a place where I was hopeless. I'd probably end up being a dead revolutionary, just because I would have wanted to feel hope.

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