It would be a mistake to identify the conditions which limit free communication and circulation of facts and ideas, and which thereby arrest and pervert social thought or inquiry, merely with overt forces which are obstructive.
Dewey argues that limiting conditions on communication go beyond overt censorship.
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They are reflections into the singular human being of customs and institutions; they are not natural, that is, “native,” organic propensities.
In other words, every officer of the public, whether he represents it as a voter or as a stated official, has a dual capacity.
It rules but it does not regulate; for its rule is confined to receipt of tribute and ceremonial deference.
They persist as emotional cries rather than as reasoned ideas.