According to the American Library Association (ALA), a challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials. Challenges do not simply involve a person expressing a point of view; rather, they are an attempt to remove material from the curriculum or library, thereby restricting the access of others.
How does one ban a book? The process begins with a challenge to the material. A challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials. Challenges go beyond expressing a personal opinion; they are an attempt to eliminate material from a curriculum or library, restricting access for others.
What is censorship? Censorship is the suppression or restriction of access to information, ideas, or content deemed objectionable, sensitive, or harmful by authorities, organizations, or individuals. It can involve limiting what people can read, watch, or express, often to control public discourse, maintain social norms, or protect certain interests. Censorship can occur in various forms, including the banning of books, filtering online content, or restricting media coverage.
How do banned books and censorship connect? Book banning is the removal of materials and books from libraries, schools, or bookstore shelves because their content, ideas, or themes are considered objectionable. This becomes censorship when private individuals, patrons and students no longer have access to valuable content.
What is intellectual freedom? Intellectual freedom is the right of every individual to seek and access information from diverse perspectives without limitations. It ensures open access to all ideas, allowing exploration of every side of a question, cause, or movement.