Intoxication Defense - Voluntary and Involuntary Consumption

Voluntary and Involuntary Consumption

There is a certain raw sense in this distinction. As an example, in the so-called Dutch courage defense the accused hates his spouse but fears to take action. The accused therefore buys a bottle of the best brandy and a sharp knife. In the morning, the bottle is empty and the knife is in the spouse's heart. Because the accused had a plan and weakening the inhibitions by drunkenness was a part of that plan, an intoxication defense is not feasible. But if, at a party, a bowl of fruit punch is "spiked" by someone who secretly adds gin, the resulting drunkenness is not voluntary and might be considered a possible defense.

Read more about this topic:  Intoxication Defense

Famous quotes containing the words voluntary, involuntary and/or consumption:

    All religions have based morality on obedience, that is to say, on voluntary slavery. That is why they have always been more pernicious than any political organisation. For the latter makes use of violence, the former—of the corruption of the will.
    Alexander Herzen (1812–1870)

    We are things of dry hours and the involuntary plan,
    Grayed in, and gray. “Dream” makes a giddy sound, not strong
    Like “rent,” “feeding a wife,” “satisfying a man.”
    Gwendolyn Brooks (b. 1917)

    To expect to increase prices and then to maintain them at a higher level by means of a plan which must of necessity increase production while decreasing consumption is to fly in the face of an economic law as well established as any law of nature.
    Calvin Coolidge (1872–1933)