Blurring Social Order With Public Sentiment: Governing Online Disinformation Through Criminal Penalty in China

Authors

  • Tingting Li South China Normal University
  • Daniel C. Hallin University of California, San Diego

Keywords:

social order, national interest, disinformation, criminal penalty, China

Abstract

Regulating Internet content has become one of the paramount issues in China, with one of the governmental tools in the fight against disinformation being a criminal charge. This article analyzes 554 criminal judgment documents, revealing that courts view the potential for public sentiment to disturb social order as a primary justification for convicting online speakers. These speakers, often affiliated with commercial and noninstitutional identities, are targeted for publishing criticism that might garner widespread public attention, with the ultimate aim of protecting government officials and regime stability.

Author Biographies

Tingting Li, South China Normal University

Associate Research Fellow+8618026418852

Daniel C. Hallin, University of California, San Diego

Distinguished Professor EmeritusDistinguished Professor of the Graduate DivisionDepartment of Communication

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Published

2024-04-14

Issue

Vol. 18 (2024)

Section

Articles

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