1170. 252 Royal Edicts

14th September

Edict (to the University of Copenhagen, the Bishops of Denmark and Norway, and the Headmaster of the Academy of Sorø,

for our own knowledge and for the knowledge of all book printers, as well as the General Ecclesiastical Inspection College (General-Kirke-Inspections Collegium)) concerning the fact that books may now be printed without prior censorship and approval.

It is detrimental for the unbiased investigation of truth, and it prevents the enlightenment regarding previous delusions and prejudices, when well-meaning and honest patriots, who strive for the common good and well-being of their fellow citizens, are discouraged from writing freely according to their own insight, conscience and conviction, in order to attack abuses and expose prejudices – because of the reputation of certain persons, or their injunctions or preconceived notions.

In such a view, the King authorises in his kingdoms and countries in general an unrestricted freedom for the printers in such a way: that no one shall be obliged and forbidden to submit his books and writings, which he wants to submit for printing, to the previously arranged censorship and approval, or at the end to submit the same to be reviewed by those to whom such business has been entrusted.