Revisiting the Political Dimension in Analyzing the Foundations of Blasphemy Laws: With a Focus on the English Legal System

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Public and International Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.

2 PhD Candidate, Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.

Abstract

Blasphemy, defined as the denial of religious doctrines, has been criminalized throughout history for various reasons. Ultimately, these reasons can be traced back to five foundations: divine command, the preservation of tradition, the maintenance of legal authority, the protection of personal dignity, and the prevention of discrimination. Given the criticisms that can be leveled against the first four foundations, and considering that the rejection of discrimination is a condition of human freedom and self-determination, this article demonstrates that only the fifth foundation can justify limiting the right to freedom of expression. Using this foundation, it becomes clear that the crime of blasphemy is only established when, firstly, the beliefs of a minority group are undermined and, secondly, the perpetrator has a motive of hostility towards that minority.

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References

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