The Fine Print of Human Folly: The World’s Strangest Laws

We are all aware of the basics: do not steal, do not harm, but did you know that do not sell gum is also on the list? There is an abundance of legislation that, at first glance, quite frankly seems odd, unusual, and perhaps humorous. However, once analysed on a deeper level, we begin to see that these somewhat ‘silly’ laws are grounded in history, culture, or public initiatives.

1. Singapore

To start with the aforementioned, it is illegal to import or sell gum in Singapore, with the exception of chewing gum for medicinal or dental purposes. This ban was introduced in 1992 to confront the issue of gum litter on public surfaces, such as elevators.

2. United States

In Alabama, it's illegal to wear a fake moustache in church, thereby causing or eliciting laughter.

It is also unlawful to drive blindfolded in Alabama – honestly, what kind of situations prompted the enactment of this law?

In Fairbanks, a city in Alaska, an incident forced officials to outlaw serving alcohol to moose.

Another interesting ban is the prohibition on sharing Netflix passwords in Tennessee, so be sure to have your own account before visiting.

3. England & Wales

The infamous Salmon Act, though generally sound, prohibits handling salmon under suspicious circumstances, specifically those where it may be presumed that the salmon was fished illegally.

Ding dong ditch is also illegal in the UK. Unless you have a valid excuse, you are forbidden from ringing a doorbell and running away.

Finally, make sure you walk your cows late at night because it is illegal to walk a cow in the streets between 10 am and 7 pm without police permission.

4. Switzerland

Saving the cutest for last, it is illegal to own only one guinea pig in Switzerland. This is because they are considered social animals and should have friends of their own species. This law is simply an attention to the welfare and emotional well-being of Swiss guinea pigs.

It is a wonder what mechanisms are in place to enforce some of these legislations, and theycall into question the legal ramifications of, for example, getting a moose drunk.