[KeenFox]

Google Reader served a similar purpose. People used its social features for communication since (the thinking went) governments weren't going to block Google.

[saint_fiasco]

Teenagers use Google Docs to chat in environments where popular IM applications are blocked, such as schools and libraries.

It's not really the same threat model as people living under dictatorships, but it might just work.

[mLuby]

Now that you mention it…

[√] absolute dependence on authorities for food, shelter, clothing, transportation, money.

[√] curfews often in effect for you and your social circle, especially if suspected of deviance.

[√] 24/7 electronic or in-person monitoring is possible and largely accepted.

[√] social circle often molded by authorities.

[√] not allowed to vote or generally exercise political agency (and when allowed it's dismissed).

[√] not allowed to leave your workplace or home without permission from authorities.

[√] possible to flee and seek asylum but it means leaving everything behind for an uncertain future.

[√] indoctrination is so effective you're extremely likely to continue the system when allowed to be an authority.

Good thing it's a benevolent regime.

[dredmorbius]

You're neglecting a key point: primary and secondary education are the province of legal minors. Full legal rights of majors do not apply.

Not that there aren't problems with both P/S education and higher education or public discoure and media generally, though your analysis misses a few key salient aspects and presents numerous red herrings.

J.S. Mill affords a longer view you may appreciate:

https://old.reddit.com/r/dredmorbius/comments/6x7u6a/on_the_...