Legal Definitions - decency

Decency refers to conduct, language, or appearance that aligns with generally accepted standards of appropriateness and respect within a particular community or setting. It implies behavior that avoids offense, upholds decorum, and shows consideration for others.

Here are some examples to illustrate the concept of decency:

• Example 1: Public Behavior

  Imagine a person loudly playing extremely offensive music with explicit lyrics from their car speakers in a quiet residential neighborhood park where children are playing. This action would likely be considered a violation of decency.

  Explanation: The act demonstrates a lack of decency because it disregards the common expectation of respectful public conduct. The loud, explicit music is inappropriate for a family-friendly public space and shows a lack of consideration for other park-goers, particularly children, who might be exposed to offensive content.

• Example 2: Professional Communication

  During a formal corporate board meeting, a board member repeatedly interrupts others, uses crude language, and makes personal insults against colleagues who express differing opinions.

  Explanation: This behavior falls short of decency standards expected in a professional setting. Decency in communication requires respectful dialogue, allowing others to speak, and refraining from personal attacks or offensive language, even when there are disagreements. The board member's actions undermine the decorum and professionalism of the meeting.

• Example 3: Media Content

  A television network broadcasts a show featuring graphic, unsimulated violence and nudity during prime-time hours, without any warnings, on a channel accessible to a general audience, including minors.

  Explanation: Such a broadcast would likely be challenged on grounds of indecency. Broadcasting regulations often include standards of decency to ensure that content aired during certain times is appropriate for a general public audience, particularly to protect children from exposure to overtly offensive or harmful material. The lack of warnings and general accessibility suggest a disregard for these standards.