LogFAQs > #900494421

SeahorseCpt89 posted...

I think this is the equivalent of shouting "FIRE" in a public area like an airport. The first amendment doesn't protect you here, and causing a panic for no reason should never go unpunished (even if unintentional). I'm not sure if prison is the right punishment, but at least a fine and community service should suffice.

Also, I fail to see how shouting "GOD" at everyone is enough to convert them, lol.

The difference between shouting "fire" and "god" is an overt attempt to cause alarm. While I'm not necessarily saying he shouldn't be punished, it's not even close to being the same thing. His action was weird and disruptive, but the word choice doesn't seem intended to alarm or cause panic. And bear in mind that even if he isn't charged criminally, he can sued for the injuries resulting from his action.

And, honestly, people charging out is a dramatic overreaction. Shouting in theaters is obnoxious but not that uncommon. The only thing I can imagine is "god" sounded like "gun"

Golden Road posted...

I'm not sure that's a foreseeable consequence?

The thing about shouting fire is that you know what you're doing. You know people are going to panic in trying to escape the non-existent fire. While this is a really bizarre way to try to convert people, I'm not sure if that sort of reaction can be reasonably anticipated. Usually when someone shouts in a theater, it's just rude, but doesn't cause any sort of panic.

This. Which would still leave him open to a civil suit, though.

lihlih posted...

Inciting public panic is illegal.

Which requires intent.
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There are precious few at ease / With moral ambiguities / So we act as though they don't exist.