The Case for Cursing (Published 2017) (2024)

FAQs

The Case for Cursing (Published 2017)? ›

People who cursed lied less on an interpersonal level, and had higher levels of integrity overall, a series of three studies published in 2017 found. “When you're honestly expressing your emotions with powerful words, then you're going to come across as more honest,” said Jay, who was not involved in the studies.

As you already know, the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects free speech. Because of the Amendment, police officers generally cannot arrest people, nor can the government prosecute them, simply for what they've said. There are, of course, exceptions to the prohibition against punishing speech.

The Bible has more to say about “bad words” than we realize

Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift” (Ephesians 4:29, MSG). Paul also says, “There should not be even a hint of sexual sin among you. Don't do anything impure.

Generally, cursing in public is not an illegal offense. However, there are some instances where you still could be charged with disorderly conduct when cursing. This includes: If your language incites violence.

Regardless of the 8 words in our English language deemed cuss words, if a word or phrase is unwholesome, vulgar, foolish, filthy, crude, or obscene, it is sinful to say.

“The courts have repeatedly found that profanity, unlike obscenity, is protected speech. We will continue bringing lawsuits until this illegal practice is stopped.” We have free speech in this country, and that's one of our critical rights, even if it is sometimes distasteful to someone else.

States that Criminalize Profanity

It may be surprising to read that certain states still have, or have recently had, laws that criminalize the use of profanity or obscene words. For example, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia all have statutes that make profanity illegal.

The Court has held that unless “fighting words” are involved, profane language has First Amendment protection. Chaplinsky v. New Hampshire, 315 U.S. 568 (1942). The concern with First Amendment protection for the use of profanity is particularly pronounced for political speech.

Federal law prohibits obscene, indecent and profane content from being broadcast on the radio or TV.

Additionally, there is legal precedent to establish that merely yelling or cursing does not substantiate a disorderly conduct charge. However, if your yelling includes threats of physical violence or poses a danger to others, first amendment protections may not apply.

Did the Bible say not to swear? ›

Jesus tells his listeners in Matthew 5:34 "to not swear oaths" and in here presents examples of swearing oaths. In context, this passage refers not to the modern understanding of cursing or using foul language, but rather, the act of swearing oaths and making promises.

It depends on who you ask. There are some Christians who believe it is a sin. The verse in the Bible that most Christians make reference to is Leviticus 19:28, which says,"You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord." So, why is this verse in the Bible?

There's a number of good reasons, but the primary reason Christians shouldn't use profanity is because the Bible tells us without doubt that profanity is comparable to malice and slander, should never be repeated, and contradicts blessing—a principal act of Christ's followers.

There are various offences which can be committed involving the use of threatening abusive words or behaviour. The effect on others and the intention of the person swearing would be some of the factors to consider when deciding whether an offence has been committed.

Tell your child what the consequences will be if you hear swear words – for example, quiet time or time-out or loss of privileges like TV time, pocket money and so on. Praise your child for not swearing in situations where they normally would.

In most cases, the law is on the side of the yeller. Speech, even when it is loud, offends or annoys others, is constitutionally protected. Additionally, there is legal precedent to establish that merely yelling or cursing does not substantiate a disorderly conduct charge.

A 16-year-old California boy dumped by his high school girlfriend didn't violate a state obscenity law by using four-letter words in anguished text messages to his ex, an appellate court ruled this week.