For teachers attempting to maintain a pluralistic atmosphere in the classroom, censorship creates a distressing dilemma. Complaints about textbooks reflect basic cultural beliefs that may conflict with those of teachers, textbook authors, and even the majority of students. Most censorship complaints stem from the current depression and frustration of people who feel that they no longer have control over their lives: if they cannot close down "x-rated" theaters and "head shops," they can certainly close down teachers who are polluting the minds of their children. If teachers defend their right to teach the books they believe in, they cannot ignore those who oppose their choices because they are the ones who place their trust in the schools to do what is best for their children. Censors have a right to be heard. Teachers who realize that promoting pluralism in the classroom will create value conflicts among students and families will be prepared to accomodate the viewpoints of censors, as well as to fight for teachers' beliefs. Otherwise, cultural pluralism will fail. (HTH)