How could Americans justify banning any books?

Question

I have heard of several books that attempts have been made to ban, such as Andrew McDonald's Turner Diaries and Hunter, as well as Hitman: Technical Manual for the Independent Contractor as well as others.

Despite the objectionable material found in them by certain groups (including the government and foreign entities), what justification does one have for banning a book in the US. I mean is our society so fragile that a book could collapse it?

Answer 1

The Government does it for our own good???? I don't think so. You can not ban books. This is a very slippery slope. Do we ban books that are objectionable to certain groups? Do we ban books that are educational, but could be used for nefarious uses? There is no way to ban books without endangering our entire way of life.

Answer 2

I'm personally opposed to banning books, and I note that both of these books are indeed available thru Amazon. I *can* understand why some would wish to ban *hate * books, Ann Coulter not withstanding.

I'd be interested to know who wanted these books banned.

Certainly, the Hitman book you mentioned indulges in it's own brand of censorship, by charging $119.99 for a new 130 page paper back. But PT Barnum had that down, you know, a sucker born every minute.

And, although free speech is guaranteed in the US, it's not an absolute right. You don't have the right to shout fire in a crowded theater. However, these "how-to" books mostly appeal to the milquetoast crowd, who vicariously thrill at the exploits of the Uberman, while sitting in the basement, and taking breaks by playing Hitman on PS2. So no problem there.

Answer 3

I am against banning any book. There certainly are some instances where central government would need to keep some info classified, but not a book written by someone not employed by the government.

I believe another book banned is the Anarchists Cookbook, because of weapons information, DYI bombs, etc. Can probably buy it in Baghdad, though.

Answer 4

In case you haven't noticed, the Bush administration has no respect for the Constitution or the rights and liberties of the American people.

Of course there is no justification for banning books. But do you really think they give a d**m about that?

Answer 5

Hitman: Technical Manual for the Independent Contractor? Are you for real?

LOL!

I agree that books shouldn't be banned, but incitement to violence is not protected speech, so I think access to that one could be limited...

Answer 6

I don't think there is any justification for book banning. I agree that our society can withstand almost anything in the printed word.

Answer 7

Boston has long been known for book banning and I have no problem with it. Were I really desirous of reading something, I would make it my goal to find the book!

Answer 8

The government hasn't banned any books, the problem is the book stores themselves, they are liberal owned and operated and if you don't follow their line they either won't carry the book or bury it somewhere in the store.

Answer 9

Also note many books have been abridged, Mark twains books are now not what the ywere, as well as Beatrix Potters originals.

Answer 10

You would be best to address this question to Tipper Gore. She is quite fond and fully supports book burning and censorship. I cannot see why we would ban them. It's not the book or content that causes the problem, it's the reader and what actions they take.