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Why Banning Books Is a Fool’s Errand: Let’s Put an End to It
At the close of 2022, classic novels like To Kill a Mockingbird and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn faced removal from the curriculum in several Virginia schools, all thanks to a concerned parent’s complaint about racial slurs. This isn’t the first time these literary staples have been challenged. In fact, Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn ranks No. 5 on the American Library Association’s list of the most frequently challenged books from 1990 to 1999, while To Kill a Mockingbird comes in at No. 40.
Over the years, both of these works have been banned for a plethora of reasons—everything from racial themes to adult situations and language. But let’s get real: who’s really behind the banning? It’s often parents. Sure, teachers, administrators, and even some religious groups have a hand in it, but more frequently, it’s parents trying to make choices they believe will protect their children from the harsh realities of life presented in literature.
As a parent myself, I totally get it. I don’t want my kids to be exposed to the darker sides of the world until they’re ready. Heck, there are some things I’d prefer they never see at all! However, the reality is, we can’t control every facet of their lives, and eventually, they will encounter the world’s cruelties. So, is keeping them away from certain books really the best way to protect them?
That’s the crux of the issue raised by those against book bans. In an insightful piece titled “Why Do We Ban Books, Anyway?”, author Lisa Morgan states: “Banning books is about individuals believing they have the right to dictate how we think and what we see, especially when it comes to protecting our children from certain narratives.” The danger of banning books lies in the assumption that one perspective is the only valid one—and that’s a slippery slope.
Let’s not forget the curious nature of human beings, particularly teens. When a book gets banned, it often becomes even more enticing. My own experience with Huckleberry Finn was less than thrilling; I was forced to read it in junior high and dreaded every moment of discussing its complex themes. Yet, looking back as an English major, I realize how valuable those discussions were for my growth.
Ultimately, literature serves a critical purpose: it allows us to explore experiences beyond our own, fostering empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives. The ability to think critically and form compassionate opinions is a skill best honed through reading and engaging with various texts. Despite this, we seem stuck in a cycle of banning essential literature for trivial reasons, all while ignoring the rich social and historical lessons that come from discussing works like To Kill a Mockingbird with peers.
We live in a diverse world filled with a myriad of beliefs and opinions. I would much rather equip my children with a broad understanding of these differences—under the guidance of their parents and educators—than have them face a harsh reality without any preparation.
We can’t shield our kids from issues like racism or sexism forever. While it’s natural to want to protect them to some extent, it’s vital that we teach them to navigate these complex issues thoughtfully. After all, studies, such as one published in The Journal of Applied Psychology, indicate that reading the Harry Potter series, which ranks as one of the most challenged books, actually helps reduce prejudice.
By banning books, we deny children the chance to develop important life skills that will serve them well as adults. We also strip them of their right to form their own opinions. Let’s put an end to this madness!
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Summary:
Banning books is more harmful than helpful; it limits children’s exposure to diverse perspectives and critical thinking skills. While it’s natural for parents to want to protect their kids, fostering understanding and empathy through literature is essential for navigating the complexities of the world.