The Debate on Banning Books for Boredom

Is it justifiable to ban a book purely because of personal boredom or dislike? Many argue against such a drastic measure, emphasizing the subjective nature of literature and the diverse tastes of readers. This article explores the rationale behind banning books and why personal boredom is not a valid reason for censorship.

Subjectivity of Reading Joy

As an English major and a dedicated teacher, I have encountered numerous texts that I found tedious or unengaging. However, this does not warrant a ban on those works. A classic example is To Kill a Mockingbird. Despite my personal boredom, it remains a staple in educational curricula and continues to resonate with countless readers who find profound messages and compelling characters within its pages.

The radio interview scene at the end of Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand provides another instance of personal discomfort with a piece of literature. While that particular scene may be tedious, it would be absurd to ban the entire novel based on one segment. It highlights the importance of recognizing that what one finds boring might be fascinating to another reader.

The Religious Perspective

Religious texts, like the Bible, contain chapters that might be dull to some but beautiful and meaningful to others. For instance, the detailed numerical accounts in Numbers or the historical records in Kings. I, as a religious individual, love reading my scriptures, yet I find certain sections boring. Yet, I know a friend who adores these very sections, finding comfort and significance in every detail. This diversity in reading enjoyment underscores the need to preserve a wide array of literature.

Personal Preferences and Literary Roles

Some argue that if a book has no reason to exist, it will not be read. This may be true in some cases, but it overlooks the broader cultural and literary value of keeping a diverse archive of books. My taste for Nathaniel Hawthorne or Ayn Rand contrasts with my friend's preference for romance novels. Each genre serves a purpose, and together they enrich our cultural landscape. Just as every book has its place, every reader's preferences should be respected.

Concluding Thoughts on Banning Outrospective

Banning books should be limited to texts that propagate hate, violence, or misinformation, such as Mein Kampf. Even then, the decision should be approached carefully. The argument for banning a book simply because it is boring is untenable. Reading is a deeply subjective experience, and every reader's journey is unique and valid.

To those who argue that a book should be banned for being boring, I suggest an experiment: spend a month reading only books that you find tedious or uninteresting, and observe how it affects your perspective. You might find that what you once deemed uninspiring now resonates with you in a different way.

Remember, when it comes to literature, one man's trash is another man's treasure. Let us celebrate the richness and diversity of our literary world rather than censoring it.