Repelling evils takes precedence over seeking benefits

Q: You know that what is generally broadcast on media devices, such as television and the like, is predominantly characterized by open sinfulness, licentiousness, and pure evil, with only rare exceptions. Does the legal principle apply here that repelling evils takes precedence over seeking benefits? May Allah reward you.

A: This principle is a great one that is always in effect, which is that repelling evils takes precedence over attaining benefits; because warding off harms takes precedence over seeking benefits. As for these means, it is necessary to advise the rulers from among the scholars and notables, and the general public should advise one another and warn against what may befall them from this in this country and elsewhere.
Therefore, they must beware of what is wrong and not do it, nor listen to it. They should rejoice in the truth and listen to it, and so it is with newspapers: they should take what is good in them and leave what is bad. The believer selects and does not become a night woodcutter who picks up a snake and a stick. Likewise, with audio and visual media, one should take what is good in them and leave what is evil in them. The people of knowledge, along with the rulers, continue, by the praise of Allah, to offer advice and guidance. We ask Allah to make the means beneficial and to guide the rulers to everything that brings well-being to the land and the people; He is the best of those asked.