What is needed to be guilty of dissemination of obscene matter?

To be guilty of dissemination of obscene matter, knowledge of the content is a critical element of the offense. This means that the individual must be aware that the material they are distributing is considered obscene. Obscenity is generally defined by community standards and lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. If a person disseminates material without knowledge of its obscene nature, it can be challenging to prove intent or culpability. Therefore, demonstrating that the individual knew what they were distributing was obscene is essential for establishing guilt in cases involving the dissemination of obscene matter.

The other options do not serve as necessary legal components for guilt in this context. For instance, approval from a third party or compliance with consumer protection regulations does not negate the classification of material as obscene or the individual's liability for its distribution. Additionally, public interest justification is not a defense against the charge of dissemination; the legal standard focuses on the nature of the material itself rather than broader societal justifications.