| 释义 |
blasphemy
n. Statements or writings that deny—in an offensive or insulting manner—the truth of the Christian religion, the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, or the existence of God. Blasphemy and blasphemous libel were formerly crimes at common law throughout the UK, with no need to show an intention to shock or insult or an awareness that the statement was blasphemous. However, prosecutions for blasphemy became very rare in the 20th century and in England and Wales both offences were abolished under the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008. In 2021 the Scottish Parliament voted to abolish the crime of blasphemy, while creating a new offence of “stirring up hatred” on religious grounds. Blasphemy remains a common law offence in Northern Ireland. |