This committee is made up of representatives from the churches, youth welfare organizations and authors, among others. It does not include any dedicated representatives of non-religious ideological communities. Those attacked have since published a comprehensive defense and there is a lively debate in the media.
The Federal Chairman of the HVD, Dr. Horst Groschopp, commented today on tomorrow’s upcoming indexing proceedings:
“We do not doubt the justification for a review. But the extensive public debate was unable to substantiate the accusations from the Ministry of Family Affairs in any way. On the contrary, voices of reason from all religious and ideological communities advise against indexing. We also believe that the question of taste should not be confused with the important issue of indexing as harmful to minors.
One can certainly differ in opinion as to whether general criticism of religion is being practiced here in an exaggerated manner. However, the book clearly aims to focus on the violent and negative aspects of religions in particular. This is legitimate, especially as it cannot be denied that these aspects are intrinsic to the religion in question. We have some doubts as to whether the book will be received as intended by children and young people. Children only understand satire at a certain age. As a result, the HVD does not recommend the book in the daycare centers it runs and in life skills classes. However, all parents and other guardians are of course free to introduce their children to the book. This is their responsibility. The members of the Federal Review Board should not allow themselves to be turned into educators of the people. The HVD does not believe that there is a risk to minors within the meaning of the law or a risk to children’s welfare. In our secular and pluralistic state, freedom of expression and artistic freedom, especially in matters of religion and ideology, is a valuable asset. We therefore oppose the indexing application. At the same time, we believe that it is time to think seriously about the education of underage children in ‘reverence for God’ in some countries’ school constitutions. The question of when, where and how children can learn about atheism and humanism – and do so authentically – must finally be raised politically!”
