Chinese contemporary artist and activist Ai Weiwei has released a new book titled "Ai Weiwei on Censorship," in which he examines threats to free expression and democratic values.

During a recent interview with CBS Mornings, Ai Weiwei discussed his concerns about what he sees as growing restrictions on free speech and human rights. The artist, known for his political activism and criticism of authoritarian governments, warned that Western nations are "no longer defending very basic humanity, rationality, human rights, freedom of speech."

Ai Weiwei's book addresses what he characterizes as the dangers of authoritarianism and censorship. The artist has extensive personal experience with government censorship, having been detained by Chinese authorities in 2011 and subjected to restrictions on his movements and communications.

The interview comes at a time when debates over free speech, content moderation, and government regulation of information have intensified across Western democracies. Ai Weiwei's perspective draws from his background as both an artist who has faced direct censorship and an observer of global political trends.

Throughout his career, Ai Weiwei has used his art and public platform to critique authoritarian practices and advocate for human rights, making him a prominent voice in discussions about freedom of expression worldwide.