Legislating Against Suicide Websites
- 0
- Add a Comment
The intent of the legislation is well meaning. In the United Kingdom, legislation is trying to catch up with the internet:
“The law on “suicide websites” is to be rewritten to ensure people know they are illegal, the government has said.
It follows concerns people searching for information on suicide are more likely to find sites encouraging the act than offering support.”
link: Crackdown on ’suicide websites’
It would seem that enforcement of such legislation is nearly impossible. What distinguishes between a website advocating suicide and a website listing information? Further, law makers would find it difficult to legislate and to control chat services. How would it be possible to control discussions on a internet relay chat service?
Legislation becomes questionable when enforcement is improbable.
Catherine Forsythe
