Why Can’t China Show Skeletons? Unpacking the Cultural and Political Sensitivities
The question of why skeletons are often absent or heavily censored in Chinese media, particularly in content aimed at younger audiences, is multifaceted. While a complete, outright ban doesn’t exist in all contexts, the reluctance to depict skeletons stems from a confluence of cultural sensitivities, superstitious beliefs, and government regulations. The primary reason is that skeletons, and depictions of death more broadly, can be seen as dishonoring ancestors, promoting superstition, and potentially causing fear or discomfort, especially in children. This aligns with broader censorship policies that aim to maintain social harmony and avoid content perceived as harmful or disruptive to traditional values. Adult media has looser standards but still faces scrutiny.
Understanding the Cultural Nuances
Ancestor Veneration and Respect for the Dead
A cornerstone of Chinese culture is ancestor veneration. Showing skeletons can be interpreted as disrespecting the deceased and disrupting the delicate balance between the living and the spirit world. Instead of focusing on the physical remains, the emphasis is on remembrance, ritual, and maintaining a connection with departed family members. Skeletons, with their stark portrayal of mortality, clash with this reverence.
Superstition and the Avoidance of Bad Luck
Chinese culture is also deeply rooted in superstition. Skeletons, like ghosts and other representations of the supernatural, are often associated with bad luck and negative energy. Depicting them prominently, especially in a way that trivializes death, can be seen as inviting misfortune. Game developers and other media creators are wary of alienating their audience or attracting unwanted attention from censors by including such imagery.
Maintaining Social Harmony and Preventing Fear
The Chinese government prioritizes social harmony and stability. Content that is deemed too violent, scary, or psychologically disturbing is often censored to avoid causing public unrest or anxiety. Skeletons, particularly in a horror context, fall under this category. The concern is that such imagery could be particularly upsetting for children, potentially leading to nightmares or other psychological distress.
Governmental Regulations and Censorship
Broad Censorship Policies
China has a comprehensive censorship apparatus that regulates all forms of media, including video games, movies, television shows, and online content. These regulations are broadly worded, allowing authorities considerable discretion in determining what is acceptable and what is not. Any content that is deemed to violate Chinese culture, promote superstition, or endanger social harmony is subject to censorship.
Specific Restrictions on Violence and Gore
The Chinese government has a history of censoring content deemed too violent or gory. This includes depictions of blood, graphic injuries, and other disturbing imagery. Skeletons, often associated with violence and decay, are frequently caught up in these restrictions.
Avoiding Offense and Maintaining Market Access
Game developers and other media creators are acutely aware of these restrictions and often self-censor their content to ensure market access in China. The Chinese market is enormous, and companies are willing to make compromises to reach Chinese audiences. This often involves removing or altering imagery that might be deemed offensive or controversial.
The Nuances of Depiction: Not a Total Ban
It is important to emphasize that there isn’t a total and absolute ban on all depictions of skeletons in China.
Context Matters
The context in which skeletons are depicted matters greatly. A skeleton in a medical textbook is unlikely to be censored, while a skeleton as a monstrous enemy in a video game is more likely to be problematic. The degree of violence, the target audience, and the overall tone of the work all play a role.
Folklore Exceptions
Some forms of traditional Chinese folklore feature beings that are skeletal or undead. These depictions are often treated with more leniency, provided they are presented in a respectful and culturally appropriate manner. However, even these depictions are subject to scrutiny and may be censored if they are deemed too graphic or frightening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are zombies banned in China?
While not completely banned, zombies, especially those outside of traditional Chinese folklore, are strictly censored in TV dramas and movies. The level of censorship depends on the depiction’s graphic nature and the overall message of the content.
2. What does the skull symbolize in China?
The skull in China carries dual symbolism. While often associated with death and fear, it can also represent protection, power, and gratitude toward life, particularly in certain Eastern traditions. However, this positive symbolism doesn’t necessarily translate to fewer restrictions in media depictions.
3. Why is blood censored in Chinese media?
The Chinese government censors blood and violent scenes in media because they are considered immoral and potentially harmful, especially to children. Content with excessive gore can be deemed disruptive to social harmony.
4. What other words and topics are censored in China?
Besides depictions of skeletons, China censors a wide range of words and topics, including Taiwan independence, Tibet independence, the Dalai Lama, and even seemingly innocuous terms like “Winnie the Pooh” due to its use in political satire. Chat functions in video games also have similar restrictions, as mentioned with the game, Genshin Impact, in the article above.
5. Is it illegal to know the gender of a baby in China?
Yes, it is illegal for health institutions to reveal the gender of a fetus unless there’s a medical reason. This law aims to combat gender-selective abortions, a consequence of the now-defunct one-child policy and traditional preferences for male offspring.
6. How does China limit gaming for young people?
Since 2019, China has imposed time limits on video games for players under 18. They are restricted to 90 minutes of play per day, and 3 hours on public holidays.
7. Is TikTok banned in China?
No, but the global version of TikTok is not accessible in China. Instead, there’s a separate, heavily regulated sister app called Douyin.
8. What happens if you “lose face” in China?
“Losing face” in China equates to losing respect and can be caused by embarrassment, disagreement, or criticism. Avoiding situations that cause “loss of face” is extremely important in Chinese culture.
9. Is public displays of affection restricted in China?
While customs are evolving, public displays of affection like hugging are not as common in China as in Western cultures. It is generally more restrained.
10. What is the most powerful symbol in China?
The dragon is the most powerful symbol in Chinese culture, representing the Emperor and possessing supernatural powers.
11. Are Western video games ever censored in Japan?
Yes. Though Japan is one of the top video game producers in the world. Games that appear offensive to Japanese culture have been edited or censored in Japan before. An example of this is Fallout 3.
12. Why was Black Adam banned in China?
One reported reason for Black Adam being banned in China was due to an actor in the film sharing a photo of his family with the Dalai Lama, whom China regards as a separatist.
13. What are some games that have been banned in America?
Some video games that have been banned in America include Thrill Kill, Custer’s Revenge, The Guy Game, and Baby Shaker.
14. Is Roblox banned in Russia?
Roblox is not banned in Russia.
15. Are there any academic resources for learning more about games?
Yes! One valuable academic resource to consult is the Games Learning Society. The GamesLearningSociety.org is dedicated to the research and understanding of game-based learning and its impact on education and society.
Conclusion: A Complex and Evolving Landscape
In conclusion, the absence of skeletons in much Chinese media is not due to a straightforward legal prohibition, but rather a complex interplay of cultural sensitivities, superstitious beliefs, and governmental regulations. While the situation may evolve over time, understanding these underlying factors is essential for anyone seeking to create or consume media in China.