THE ETHICIST TAP : [Q]

 

I am strongly against the banning of any books -until it comes to my own child.

My 6-year-old son likes a number of books that not only really stink but also teach him bad manners and rude phrases, like '' stinky butt,'' ''total dork'' and '' dumb'' - words that are way below my son's capacity as a reader and thinker.

After he reads these books, he turns into what could be called a rude jerk.

That said, my not liking behaviours and phrases he learns from these books is akin to others not liking the thoughts and actions described in books that have been banned in schools and libraries across the country.

I find those bans appalling.

Should I let him read these books that I despise, or am I on strong ethical grounds to curtail his personal library? [ Name Withheld ]

The Ethicist analysis and answer follow in the next publishing. The World Students Society thanks The New York Times.