Buzz
It’s a well-known fact that prohibiting something often makes it more appealing, a concept even a child understands. Yet, some governments have chosen to outlaw these odd items, believing it to be a simple solution to their challenges.
1. Greece: Video Games
Back in 2002, Greece imposed a ban on all forms of electronic gaming, covering everything from console games to online classics like Solitaire and Minesweeper. The primary aim of this law was to combat online gambling. According to CNET, the government admitted it couldn’t differentiate harmless video games from illegal gambling machines, leading to the sweeping prohibition. However, a Greek judge later ruled the ban unconstitutional. Although the law remains on the books, enforcement has largely faded away.
2. China: Time Travel
Not the act of time travel itself, but its depiction in media. In early 2011, China’s State Administration for Radio, Film, and Television announced that time travel is nearly banned from television and cinema. Time travel had become a popular theme in Chinese TV dramas, but the government criticized these portrayals for “creating absurd myths, featuring bizarre storylines, employing ridiculous tactics, and promoting feudalism, superstition, fatalism, and reincarnation.” Ironically, the time-travel movie Looper became hugely popular in China.
3. Russia: Emo Culture
Originating in the 1980s, the emo subculture is known for its emotionally charged music, blending punk and rock, and its distinctive fashion that mixes punk and goth styles. While many see it as a teenage phase, Russia views it as a harmful social movement that needs eradication. In 2008, legislation (“Government Strategy in the Sphere of Spiritual and Ethical Education”) aimed to curb “dangerous teen trends,” including emo culture. The bill describes “emos” as teens with studded belts, painted nails, facial piercings, and black hair with fringes covering their faces. It argues that the emo “negative ideology” fosters depression, social isolation, and suicide, making it irresponsible to let the trend persist. Emo supporters protested in the UK and Siberia, defending their right to express their emotions. If Russia succeeds, emo culture could be nearly eradicated by 2020.
4. China: Reincarnation
Without approval from China's government, reincarnation is off the table. This might not affect most individuals, but for Tibetan Buddhist monks, it presents a significant challenge. The legislation meticulously outlines the process for sanctioned reincarnations, framing it as “a crucial step toward regulating reincarnation practices.” Critics argue this is a covert strategy to weaken the Dalai Lama's authority and curb the remaining Buddhist institutions in Tibet. At 77, the current Dalai Lama has vowed not to reincarnate in Tibet under Chinese rule. This stance could lead to a future with two Dalai Lamas—one endorsed by the Chinese government under their regulations, and another selected by the Buddhist community.
5. Cuba: Mobile Phones
Under Fidel Castro's leadership, mobile phones were a rarity among Cuban citizens. The issue wasn't cost but prohibition—only foreign company executives and top communist officials were permitted to own them. Fidel justified this ban as “essential sacrifices” in the ideological conflict with the U.S. The scenario changed when Raul Castro assumed power in 2008, promptly lifting the mobile phone ban. Despite the high prices, the newfound freedom led to a surge in Cubans eager to own their first mobile phone.
