How was censorship justified by the government and the church?

Censorship was often justified by the government and the church as a means of maintaining social order and protecting moral values. They argued that restricting access to certain ideas, literature, or expressions was necessary to prevent the spread of harmful or subversive thoughts that could destabilize society or undermine religious teachings. Additionally, both institutions claimed that censorship safeguarded the public from indecency and ensured adherence to societal norms. This rationale often reflected a desire to control information and maintain authority over cultural and ideological discourse.