Kleinsmith: The perilous path of book banning is a threat to progress

In an era marked by unprecedented access to information, the resurgence of book banning presents a paradox that threatens the very foundation of our collective intellectual progress.

At first glance, the act of banning books might seem like a measure to protect certain sensibilities or maintain social order. However, this practice not only undermines the fundamental principles of freedom and open inquiry but also poses a significant threat to the human race's capacity for growth, empathy, and understanding. This threat becomes particularly pronounced within the context of public schools, where the implications of book banning can have far-reaching consequences on the minds of young learners. Here's why:

The stifling of critical thinking: At the heart of any progressive society lies the ability to question, debate, and think critically. Books, in their myriad forms, serve as catalysts for this critical thinking, challenging us to see the world through perspectives different from our own. By banning books, we risk creating echo chambers that insulate us from the complex, often uncomfortable realities of the world. This intellectual isolationism is particularly dangerous in public schools, where students are in the formative stages of developing their analytical and critical thinking skills. Book banning in educational settings not only undermines academic freedom but also hampers students' ability to engage with diverse ideas and perspectives, a cornerstone of a well-rounded education.

The erosion of empathy: Literature has the unique capacity to serve as a window into the lives of others, fostering an understanding and empathy that transcends cultural, racial, and geographical boundaries. Through stories, we live countless lives, confront moral dilemmas, and grapple with the human condition in all its forms. Banning books that deal with challenging or controversial topics deprives not only the wider society but especially young learners in public schools of this opportunity for growth and understanding. When educational institutions limit access to such narratives, they inadvertently promote a homogenized worldview that stifles empathy and understanding among students, reinforcing prejudices and inhibiting personal and social growth.

The danger of historical amnesia: One of the most insidious effects of book banning is its potential to erase or distort history. By controlling which narratives are accessible, those in power can shape the collective memory of society, often in ways that serve their interests. This manipulation of history is particularly egregious in public schools, where a curated selection of texts can severely limit students' understanding of their own history and that of the world. Historical amnesia, fueled by book banning in educational settings, leaves students ill-equipped to recognize and address the root causes of societal issues, condemning future generations to repeat the mistakes of the past.

Conclusion — and a call to action: The banning of books is a regressive practice that undermines the very principles upon which enlightened societies are built. It is a threat not only to individual freedoms but to the collective intellectual and moral progress of humanity. This threat is particularly acute in the context of public schools, where the consequences of book banning can have a profound impact on the development of young minds. As such, it is incumbent upon us — all who value freedom, progress, and empathy — to resist this practice in all its forms, especially within educational institutions.

One thing we can do is vote for those school board candidates who resist the counter-productive urge to keep published books away from our growing minds in our public schools. At the very least have faith in our youth ... they've got this!!! If the urge to censor persists, censor books at home where the effects won't affect the super-majority of our students who are expected to and challenged to expand their minds and continue to grow up to be healthy well-rounded citizens ... the kind of neighbors we all like to have.

In the cause of open access to literature, defend the rights of authors to express diverse viewpoints, and advocate for the inclusion of challenging, controversial, or uncomfortable works in our libraries and educational institutions. By doing so, we not only safeguard the intellectual freedom of current and future generations but also affirm our commitment to fostering a society that values critical inquiry, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of the world.

In doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of free expression, critical inquiry, and mutual understanding within the hallowed halls of education and beyond. Let us not be the architects of our intellectual impoverishment but the guardians of our collective enlightenment. The path forward is one of resistance to censorship, celebration of diversity in thought and literature, and unwavering support for the fundamental human right to explore the vast, complex tapestry of human knowledge and experience contained within the pages of books.

In the words of the great thinker Edward Bulwer-Lytton, "The pen is mightier than the sword." Let us wield it wisely, for in its stroke lies the power to shape the future of humanity, starting with the minds we nurture in our schools.

Stephen Kleinsmith, Ed.D., served as superintendent of Nixa Public Schools Superintendent from 2000-2018.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Perilous path of book banning is a threat to intellectual progress