> I have given a great many examples of works of art
> that glorify bad values and are considered
> transcendent. Or good. Or excellent. I guess I am
> frustrated because you don't seem to acknowledge that
> possibility -- that a work of art (even a TV show) can
> embody values we find hateful, and be good or great.
> If you think otherwise, then we have been talking past
> each other.
>
> However, if not, the notion that art is only good if
> it is In Accord With Good Values is something I find
> extremely obnoxious. Whether or not it comes with the
> suggestion that warning labels be applied, much less
> more extreme measures such as censorship. I
> acknowledge here expressly, and hope it is clear
> enough now, that you do not and never have supported
> even the mildest form of censorship. That's great, and
> I'm glad of it. But censoriousness is bad, though not
> as bad as censorship. And so far as I can see you are
> censorious. I wish you weren't.
>
> jks
I could be wrong, but I think most good dramatic writing/movies/television provides some sort of compelling implicit commentary on the question of how we are to live. In other words, good art generally moralizes.
-- Luke