Should writers who write dark themes be responsible for their readers?

The debate about whether writers who explore dark themes should be held responsible for how their readers interpret and react to their work is currently a hot topic in my community. This discussion has been ongoing for almost a week and has sparked a lot of conversation. Does writing dark themes or dark romance really affect the way readers think and act in real life? Some people have been vocal in calling out writers who tackle taboo or dark subjects, arguing that they should be more conscious of the potential influence their work may have on readers. Some people even think that writers who write about taboo subjects are romanticizing them and have a sick mentality. I find this viewpoint ridiculous because I believe we're responsible for what we consume. Also, writers always give a warning when writing a book. Are the warnings from the writers useless, like what those people claimed?

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in10RjFox · M

Does writing dark themes or dark romance really affect the way readers think and act in real life?

It definitely does the effect of which can be sensed from the way they behave, their vocabulary, their sensitivity, tolerance etc

I believe we're responsible for what we consume.

Yes, but there is no rejection process in our mind, like how it is for food or drink. We can't and don't vomit for what's consumed stays within and affects us subconsciously.

The effect of which can be seen in how people make and reject friends, get into silly arguments or petty squabble

Also there is no minimum age for a book as anyone can read it. So the same book when read by a matured person will have no impact, while it can affect a young maturing person.