Judge Ben B. Lindsey

Judge Ben B. Lindsey, the celebrated juvenile court reformer, delivers a forceful defense of motion pictures against censorship, arguing that films should be improved through cooperation rather than control. Speaking from long experience with youth and crime, he insists that parents, teachers, churches, social groups, producers, and exhibitors share responsibility for guiding children toward wholesome entertainment. He points to organized public efforts, including the Colorado Parent-Teacher Association, as proof that education, selection, and community support can raise standards without government interference. At the heart of the essay is a broader warning against "artificial restraints" imposed by law and censorship boards. Lindsey argues that true moral strength comes from "natural restraints" built in homes, schools, and religion, where young people learn to face temptation with courage and choose good freely. He rejects the claim that movies are a major cause of juvenile crime, instead portraying them as a powerful visual educator that can inspire virtue, provide healthy outlets, and even foster understanding among peoples. In his view, censorship would threaten freedom of thought itself, while a better future depends on trust, resilience, and the public's demand for cleaner, better films. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.