Deciding if a Book is Banned: Who Holds the Pen?

The age-old debate over whether a book should be banned often hinges on who holds the power to make such a decision. From concerned parents and school boards to publishers and libraries, the landscape is complex. This article explores the role of various entities in deciding if a book should be banned, emphasizing the importance of free speech and literary freedom.

The Role of Concerned Individuals

Sometimes, the decision to ban a book is driven by individuals or groups who perceive themselves as "guardians of morality."

“The ‘concerned people’ who think that they are the guardians of other people’s morality. said with heavy sarcasm I see no reason to ban books like Huckleberry Finn or the Harry Potter series. Both have value and great lessons in them that the kids learn without knowing they are learning them.”

Books such as Huckleberry Finn and the Harry Potter series offer invaluable lessons to young readers, whether they realize it or not. Banning these books can only fuel curiosity and desire, making the very ban counterproductive.

The Influence of School Boards and Libraries

Another common decision-making body is the school board and the librarian. They have the power to choose what books are available in schools and libraries.

“The parent teachers school board can ban books in the schools. The librarian can ban those in the library but you can still get the books online and banning them only makes more people buy them.”

While these decisions have significant impact on students and readers, it's important to note that banning a book doesn't prevent access. Instead, it often heightens interest and drives traffic to the banned material, as seen with the marketing strategy behind the author's wishes to be banned.

The Role of Publishers, Librarians, and Bookstores

Others involved in the decision are publishers and bookstores. They may choose not to print or stock certain books, but this is not considered "banning" in a legal or governmental sense.

“A publisher might decide not to print a particular book. A library might decide not to purchase a particular book. A bookstore might not stock it. That’s not ‘banning.’”

Instead of outright bans, these entities often use their discretion based on market demand, content, and community standards.

The Limits of Government and Business in Deciding Book Bans

While schools and private institutions can ban books, the government plays a different role. In the United States, the government cannot interfere with the right to read, a fundamental freedom protected by the First Amendment. However, private businesses and institutions have the right to set their own rules and restrictions.

“In the US nobody can ban a book. The government can’t interfere with our right to decide what we want to read.”

For example, while a government can't ban a book, a private business like Apple or Google can ban an app from their store if it violates their rules. But if a government pressured these businesses to ban an app, it would be a violation of free speech and a infringement on the first amendment rights.

Conclusion

The decision to ban a book ultimately rests with those who have the power, whether it's a school board, library, or private entity. However, the right to read and the freedom of expression are critical. While there are valid reasons for concern, the power to decide should not tread on the fundamental freedoms that our society holds dear.