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.

If in other lands the press and books and literature of all kinds are censored, we must redouble our efforts read more

If in other lands the press and books and literature of all kinds are censored, we must redouble our efforts here to keep them free

The first condition of progress is the removal of censorship.

The first condition of progress is the removal of censorship.

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.

Every burned book enlightens the world.

Every burned book enlightens the world.

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.

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.