Writer's Fallout Shelter

Very well said.

And you're right - the whole notion is intimidating to some. I don't think it's the strictness of their beliefs, exactly, but their own insecurities in those beliefs, that causes some to find this whole notion of exploring alternate viewpoints frightening.

I mean, why ban books or other writing that contains notions that are offensive to us or go against our beliefs? Are our deeply held beliefs so weak that they can be shaken by an open discussion of other possibilities? If so, are they really deeply held beliefs at all?

I think close-mindedness is the fear that your mind COULD be changed. I don't fear that at all - if my mind can be changed, then it's not made up. If I can listen to others' ideas and not be persuaded, then it is. Simple enough.