Censorship reflects a society's lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime.

Censorship reflects a society's lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime.

If this nation is to be wise as well as strong, if we are to achieve our destiny, then we read more

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.

Pontius Pilate was the first great censor, and Jesus Christ the first great victim of censorship.

Pontius Pilate was the first great censor, and Jesus Christ the first great victim of censorship.

I am mortified to be told that, in the United States of America, the sale of a book can become read more

I am mortified to be told that, in the United States of America, the sale of a book can become a subject of inquiry, and of criminal inquiry too.

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.

Only the suppressed word is dangerous.

Only the suppressed word is dangerous.

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.

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.

As long as I don't write about the government, religion, politics, and other institutions, I am free to print anything.

As long as I don't write about the government, religion, politics, and other institutions, I am free to print anything.