The New Blasphemy Laws:

I don't know if any intellectual has made the analogy quite this way, but, it seems to me that 1) "harassing speech"/hostile work environment causes of action and 2) hate crimes statutes, which apply to not merely conduct, but speech (I know the latter are common in other countries, even Canada, not the US; but the former do exist under US law) are our modern day blasphemy laws.

The recent controversy over the Danish cartoons and the idea that any legal action could or should be brought against the artist and publisher brings this to mind.

I distinctly remember watching the 700 Club some years ago where Pat Robertson remarked that Christians should be able to sue for harassment under workplace anti-discrimination statutes when their fellow workers use Jesus' name as a swear word. Given the hostile work environment theories recognized by our courts, he well could have a case.

But instead of fighting the excesses of PC...well, if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

As Pete Townsend said, "Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."