Govenment Control

in Russia there isn't a "true" freedom of the press. I guess they aren't allowed to make fun of their leaders on television there...

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/06/02/africa/russia.php

it's funny because we think of things like this being so far away from American government... untill we know about things like the "Sedition Act"


http://www.constitution.org/rf/sedition_1798.htm

obviously there is alot more to be read there but this is the most crazy thing. This is a description of what the offence is and what they can charge you with. The worst part is that John Adams signed this in as president!!! he was one of our founding fathers! thankfully this is no longer still in effect... so it's okay...

so look!

"SECTION II. Punishes seditious writings.
1. Definition of offence:
To write, print, utter or publish, or cause it to be done, or assist in it, any false, scandalous, and malicious writing against the government of the United States, or either House of Congress, or the President, with intent to defame, or bring either into contempt or disrepute, or to excite against either the hatred of the people of the United States, or to stir up sedition, or to excite unlawful combinations against the government, or to resist it, or to aid or encourage hostile designs of foreign nations.

2. Grade of offence:
A misdemeanour.

3. Punishment:
Fine not exceeding $2000, and imprisonment not exceeding two years. "

If you want to know more about this you can look it up on google or wikipedia, just search
"The Sedition Act of 1798"