The irony of banning books is that the bans often rise from a place of initial well-meaning concern. The argument for censorship usually focuses on the preservation of moral values and influence on young, growing minds. When books explore sensitive subjects such as sex, politics, religion or race, that mirror our society, they are envisioned as a threat.
However, this mindset completely disregards the reality that literature provides a relatable and eye-opening experience for many. Literature reflects society’s strengths, flaws and complexities of the human experience. By censoring books, we are essentially stifling an opportunity for readers to grapple with difficult issues, forcing them into a fake but tidy version of the world that is not only unrealistic but unjust.
One of the most important roles of books is to teach the uncomfortable topics that others don’t want to teach and to foster critical thinking. Books challenge perceived notions, stimulate empathy and encourage readers to develop or consider new ideas. When books are banned individuals are deprived of these vital tools.
Young readers in particular need access to diverse perspectives to help them navigate the real world. Removing these resources because they are “too controversial” robs readers of an important part of their intellectual and emotional development.
Furthermore, the idea that banning books protects children or vulnerable populations is deeply flawed. It assumes that individuals are incapable of discerning between different viewpoints or ideas without being shielded from them. This view undermines the intelligence and autonomy of young readers by implying that society cannot trust its people to engage with challenging topics in a thoughtful and mature way.
The reality is that children and young adults are increasingly exposed to complex issues in the world outside of school, and engaging with these topics in a thoughtful manner through reading literature is essential for personal development.
The impact of banning books is often times highly political and the books that are banned disproportionately represent minorities, whether that means LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color or those from different cultural backgrounds. By removing these books, we risk losing and erasing important voices and narratives that challenge historically dominant and privileged viewpoints. This is not only perpetrates inequality but also limits the scope of our imagination, reinforcing prejudice and stereotypes that should have no place in a modern society.
Those who agree with book banning might argue that certain texts disrupt societal norms. However, the act of censoring books undermines the fundamental principles of democracy and intellectual freedom. In the age of the Internet, where information is abundant and largely unregulated, the idea that we need to restrict books to “protect” society seems increasingly outdated.
Rather that flat-out banning books, we should foster an environment where intellectual and free thinking thrive. Those with the ability to make an impact on others should encourage readers to discuss the spectrum of ideas that comes with literature, rather that silencing them. When we choose to ban a book we limit the potential for personal and societal growth.
By protecting the right to read freely, we honor the principals of liberty, equality and intellectual freedom. We should be able to embrace the difficult conversations books provoke, because in doing so we protect the freedom of individuality and thought for future generations to come.
