Liberals and conservatives both say they oppose censorship—until a book challenges their values, according to Cornell Chronicle. New Cornell research shows that today’s literary censorship is less about graphic content and more about political ideology, with each side backing bans on material they find offensive.
The study, published Sept. 23 in PLOS One, surveyed over 800 Americans and found both groups supported censorship—but for different reasons. Conservatives leaned toward legislative action, while liberals favored social media campaigns to suppress content.
Researchers warn this bipartisan “cancel culture” arms race is eroding free expression, as political attacks masquerade as literary criticism—even against content proven ideologically neutral.
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