The Dangerous Political Theater of Book Burning: Why Missouri State Senators Bill Eigel and Nick Schroer are playing a dangerous political game

In recent times, we have witnessed a troubling trend in American politics - the use of book burning as a form of political theater. This disturbing act, symbolizing support for book bans sweeping across the United States, not only undermines creativity and access to knowledge but also threatens our fundamental principles of free expression. The participation of Missouri State Senators Bill Eigel and Nick Schroer in such an event is a deeply troubling development that warrants a strong opposition.

Screen capture from X.com

​Free expression is a cornerstone of American democracy. Book burning, as a symbolic act of censorship, directly contradicts this principle. When elected officials engage in such behavior, they send a dangerous message that it is acceptable to stifle diverse viewpoints and ideas. This narrow-minded approach threatens the very foundation of progress and intellectual growth upon which our society is built.

Censorship, in any form, stifles creativity and innovation. Books are a medium through which ideas, stories, and knowledge are shared. When we ban books or engage in book burning, we limit the diversity of thought and perspectives that fuel creativity. This hampers our ability to explore different viewpoints and engage with diverse cultures, which are essential for fostering creativity.

Book bans and burnings harm access to knowledge and information. They deny individuals the opportunity to educate themselves about important issues, limiting personal growth and the ability to make informed decisions as citizens. By restricting access to information, we hinder the development of an informed and engaged society.

Engaging in book burning as a form of political theater sets a dangerous precedent. When elected officials endorse censorship, it emboldens others to follow suit. What might start as a symbolic act can quickly escalate into genuine threats to free expression and the suppression of ideas that don't align with those in power.

In a democracy, we resolve differences through civil discourse, not by burning books. When elected officials resort to such extreme measures to make a political point, it undermines the possibility of constructive dialogue and compromise. It promotes division and polarization, further eroding the foundations of our democracy.

The participation of Missouri State Senators Bill Eigel and Nick Schroer in a book burning event is a deeply troubling and dangerous form of political theater. It not only undermines the principles of free expression but also stifles creativity, restricts access to knowledge, and sets a perilous precedent for future actions that threaten our democracy. As citizens, we must uphold the values that make our society strong, and that includes standing up against any attempt to suppress the free exchange of ideas and information.