Works of art and information judged as obscene can be censored or banned. This brief
review evaluates the costs and benefits of censorship and the banning of artwork and
information. In the history of psychology, Frederick Wiseman’s filmTiticut
Folliesepitomizes the disadvantages of concealing art content. Despite
protecting the privacy of patients, the ban ofTiticut Folliesdelayed
the reform of psychiatric treatment practices and hospitals. The decision to censor or ban
artistic and scientific information can result in the loss of knowledge and potential
improvements to social, political, and economic institution practices.