Question from a reader:
I would like to ask about free actions. If a person who has become a drunkard from drinking alcohol and has been arrested in the past for assault or violence drinks again and makes unreasonable demands on restaurant staff, when does that behavior begin?
Free Actions and Their Legal and Psychological Analysis
In response to the reader’s question,
we will explore the legal aspects of free actions combined with a psychological approach. Here, we will analyze in detail the case of a person who becomes a drunkard from drinking alcohol, has been arrested in the past for assault or violence, drinks again, and makes unreasonable demands on restaurant staff.
Legal Background
From a legal perspective, to consider this scenario, we first need to understand what “free actions” are. Generally, free actions mean acting according to one’s own will. However, in law, this freedom is guaranteed only as long as it does not infringe on the rights of others. Specifically, actions taken while drinking can be restricted in public spaces or in relation to others. For example, Article 208 of the Japanese Penal Code prohibits violent acts against others, and even if a person is intoxicated, they can be held legally responsible for committing assault or injury. Therefore, if a person who has been arrested in the past for assault or violence drinks again and makes unreasonable demands on staff, the behavior does not begin at the moment they start drinking; rather, if that behavior is violent or unreasonable towards others, they can be held legally accountable.
Psychological Aspects
Next, we will examine this issue from a psychological perspective. Alcohol is known to have many effects on the brain, leading to impaired judgment and control. In particular, individuals with alcohol dependence or who are prone to drunkenness often find it difficult to maintain self-control after drinking. This can lead to violent behavior, which is understood psychologically as “impulse control disorder.” Engaging in violent behavior again due to drinking is often related to past trauma or psychological issues. For instance, individuals may attempt to alleviate stress or anxiety through alcohol, but this can, in turn, exacerbate their problems. Therefore, such behavior cannot simply be labeled as “free actions,” as there is a complex psychological background involved.
Ethical Considerations
From an ethical standpoint, this issue is also complex. When free actions cause harm to others, there is a moral responsibility associated with those actions. Restaurant staff have an obligation to provide service to customers, but they also have the right not to comply with unreasonable demands. In this case, how staff respond can create an ethical dilemma. For example, when a restaurant serves alcohol, it may be required to impose “drinking limits” on customers who are becoming overly intoxicated. This is not only to protect the customer themselves but also to protect other customers and staff, reflecting ethical considerations.
Industry Regulations and Contract Law
In the entertainment industry, there are laws and regulations regarding the provision of alcohol. Particularly in restaurants and bars, regulations are necessary to prevent intoxicated customers from causing harm to others. For instance, laws prohibiting the provision of alcohol to minors and requirements to cease service to excessively intoxicated customers are in place. Additionally, the relationship between restaurants and customers is also a contractual one. While customers agree to receive services within the establishment, the restaurant has an obligation to provide those services safely. The fulfillment of this contract is based on a balance of rights and obligations for both parties.
Privacy Rights and Social Responsibility
In the restaurant and entertainment industry, privacy rights are also an important element. When customers make unreasonable demands, there is a possibility that their privacy may be violated if their actions become publicly known. However, it is necessary for establishments to respond appropriately to violent or legally problematic behavior, which may result in a compromise of privacy. Moreover, from a social responsibility perspective, the alcohol-serving industry should adopt an educational approach towards consumers. It is essential to engage in awareness activities regarding the proper way to consume alcohol and the impacts of behavior while intoxicated. This is crucial for maintaining the overall health of the industry.
Practical Advice
To address this issue, practical advice for fans and industry professionals will be provided. First, it is important to know one’s limits when drinking and to respect relationships with others. If one has a history of problematic behavior, they should consider seeking help from professionals. Additionally, individuals involved in the restaurant and entertainment industry should deepen their understanding of alcohol through training and workshops. This can help them develop the skills necessary to respond appropriately when faced with unreasonable demands.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
While free actions are important as individual rights, it is essential to remember that they come with responsibilities towards others. Considering that drinking can impair judgment and that past actions can influence the future, self-management is necessary. Deepening our understanding of this issue can contribute not only to individuals but also to the overall health of society. It is hoped that readers can gain new perspectives through this discussion. Please feel free to share your thoughts and feedback.
