© Ryan Pyle

Past examples of government control: During the Olympics, big screen television in a small public square posts a message telling people that they will not show the opening ceremonies and that people should not gather in this public space, Aug. 8, 2008. Many watched on their own televisions. The Olympics had caused much fanfare since 2001 when Beijing was officially awarded the games. The city went through many transformations before it was considered ready to host the games.

© Ryan Pyle

Past examples of government restrictions: Locally the Beijing Olympics were dubbed the "No Fun Olympics" and here a young child may have been wondering why a public square is closed off during the Opening Ceremonies on Aug. 8, 2008.