Are "Acts of God" Disappearing?
Considering humans' increased impact on the environment, we may want to reconsider whether there is still a place in our legal system for the Act of God defense. Thanks to all our viewers...
==========
Hi, this is Kate from MinuteEarth. In 1903, an unprecedented flood struck Kansas, wreaking havoc on homes, farmland, infrastructure, and an entire trainload of butter. The creamery sued the rail company for its lost cargo, but the railroad argued that they shouldn’t be responsible, since the flood had been completely out of their control. The court agreed, ruling that the flood had been an “act of god.” Courts around the world have actually been using the term since the 1500’s to describe unprecedented events that seem to come out of nowhere. Today, you’ll see “acts of god” mentioned in contracts, insurance policies, and a few US environmental laws. And, like in the butter case, you might hear a lawyer milking the term as a defense in court. T...
==========
Hi, this is Kate from MinuteEarth. In 1903, an unprecedented flood struck Kansas, wreaking havoc on homes, farmland, infrastructure, and an entire trainload of butter. The creamery sued the rail company for its lost cargo, but the railroad argued that they shouldn’t be responsible, since the flood had been completely out of their control. The court agreed, ruling that the flood had been an “act of god.” Courts around the world have actually been using the term since the 1500’s to describe unprecedented events that seem to come out of nowhere. Today, you’ll see “acts of god” mentioned in contracts, insurance policies, and a few US environmental laws. And, like in the butter case, you might hear a lawyer milking the term as a defense in court. T...
