If this nation is to be wise as well as strong, if we are to achieve our destiny, then we need more new ideas for more wise men reading more good books in more public libraries. These libraries should be open to all—except the censor. We must know all the facts and hear all the alternatives and listen to all the criticisms. Let us welcome controversial books and controversial authors. For the Bill of Rights is the guardian of our security as well as our liberty.
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The fact is that censorship always defeats its own purpose, for it creates, in the end, the kind of society read more
The fact is that censorship always defeats its own purpose, for it creates, in the end, the kind of society that is incapable of exercising real discretion.
If there had been a censorship of the press in Rome we should have had today neither Horace nor Juvenal, read more
If there had been a censorship of the press in Rome we should have had today neither Horace nor Juvenal, nor the philosophical writings of Cicero.
The first condition of progress is the removal of censorship.
The first condition of progress is the removal of censorship.
Damn all expurgated books; the dirtiest book of all is the expurgated book.
Damn all expurgated books; the dirtiest book of all is the expurgated book.
Censorship in any form is the enemy of creativity, since it cuts off the life blood of creativity: ideas.
Censorship in any form is the enemy of creativity, since it cuts off the life blood of creativity: ideas.
I am opposed to censorship. Censors are pretty sure fools. I have no confidence in the suppression of everyday facts.
I am opposed to censorship. Censors are pretty sure fools. I have no confidence in the suppression of everyday facts.
Only the suppressed word is dangerous.
Only the suppressed word is dangerous.
Censorship reflects a society's lack of confidence in itself.
Censorship reflects a society's lack of confidence in itself.
Censorship ends in logical completeness when nobody is allowed to read any books except the books that nobody reads.
Censorship ends in logical completeness when nobody is allowed to read any books except the books that nobody reads.
