The Pros And Cons Of Banning Books

Throughout the course of time, since the first book was ever written, people have tried to limit other’s view of the world. This has led to recent controversy with some trying to ban books that may keep people from learning about the world around them. This method of blocking out specific ideas has become so popular, that over 300 books were banned in America just last year. Some believe the banning of books is alright because they feel as though some topics should not be written about while others think that no one should censor what can and can’t be read. The problem with the concept of banning texts lies within the assumption that any material is unsuitable to be read; there is alway something to be learned from even the most controversial of texts. The sensible reality is that books should not be banned because the practice of banning books harms our society’s ability to grow with challenging ideas.

People who grow up without reading about challenging ideas are often hit with a culture shock when they are older. By censoring information about American society, some may not know how to react when they find out about these truths later on in life. With a lack of education and knowledge about the world around us, people can become judgemental, and there is a chance that they won’t accept those who have a different opinion or way of life. Children of parents who block out ideas which they find inappropriate may not be as successful in life due to the fact that they are not able to look at things in different ways. Censoring books is showing the world that it is okay to block out ideas that they don’t like, which is not only narrow minded, but dangerous when considering the greater cultural implications. This banning of materials should be stopped before American society becomes too divided and too enveloped in one social