What does the term "seditious" imply when referring to criticism?

The term "seditious" specifically pertains to actions, speech, or writing that incite rebellion or resistance against the authority of a government. When applied to criticism, calling it seditious implies that the criticism goes beyond mere discontent and actively encourages or promotes revolt against established authority or governance. This connotation resonates strongly in contexts where dissent is viewed as a threat to order or stability.

The other interpretations do not align with the core meaning of "seditious." For example, the idea of being supportive of government contradicts the essence of sedition, which is fundamentally about challenging or undermining authority. Moreover, claiming that something is universally accepted would negate the critical and controversial nature implied by sedition. Finally, remaining non-political stands in stark contrast to the political implications inherent in any form of seditious behavior, as it specifically involves an engagement with issues of power and governance.