Absolutes Quote by Katharine Whitehorn
“The case against censoring anything is absolute: ... nothing that could be censored can be so bad in its effects, in the long run, as censorship itself.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Case Against Censorship, The Guardian, 1975
Censorship harms society more than any content it might suppress, because it blocks ideas and stifles progress.
In simple terms: Censorship is worse than bad ideas.
Key Takeaway
Protect free expression.
Themes
freedom of speech
media
societal health
Mood
defensive
critical
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- journalism
- education
- political debate
- online platforms
Key Concepts
authoritarianism
information control
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- When does protecting society outweigh free speech?
- How can we balance safety and openness?
A Different Perspective
Censorship can be justified in extreme cases like hate speech.
![“In the long run [censorship] will create a generation incapable of appreciating the difference between independence of thought and subservience.” quote by Henry Steele Commager](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bda/henry-steele-commager-16894_appreciate_in-the-long-run-censorship-will-create-a_1014393.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
