Book agent Chip MacGregor prompted a lively debate at his blog recently (http://chipmacgregor.typepad.com/main/2009/02/a-quick-qanda.html) when he commented on LifeWay Christian Stores' stickering some of the books it sells—such as “emergent church” titles--with “read with discernment” advisories.

Describing the move as “deeply stupid,” he argued that while he may not agree with everything an author says, “these are books, for crying out loud. And the best books are the ones that make us think... to put warning labels on them smacks of the worst aspects of Christian legalism.”

Not everyone agreed with him. “Yes, they could just refuse to sell the books they think are damaging, but they also can make a statement,” went one response. “Some people won't like the statement and they'll quit shopping at LifeWay. Others of us will like the statement and we'll start supporting them. “

What do you think? How far should stores go in exercising care and control over what they offer?

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