Modern comic strips are gaining in popularity throughout the world as they offer a concise and easily understood story, and have an attractive, seemingly innocuous appearance, often syndicated throughout the world to millions of adherents. However, due to their world-wide publication, they may conflict, in some countries, with cherished moral or cultural values; may present a falsified account of history; have racist or militarist overtones; or encourage a fascination with violence which has anti-social effects.