公共场所犯罪向元宇宙空间的拓展研究

A Study on the Expansion of Public Space Crimes into the Metaverse

公共场所犯罪系刑法中极少数以“犯罪空间”决定“罪与非罪”“罪轻罪重”的犯罪类别,当元宇宙划时代地为人类打造出一个虚实共生的“桃花源”时,新型犯罪空间也随之生成。有别于传统网络空间的扁平化与局限性,元宇宙以立体式和沉浸式的样态予以展现,通过公共场所犯罪中危害行为的异化,元宇宙复刻了在现实空间中实施同等犯罪行为所侵害的法益之效果,由此为公共场所犯罪向其拓展的留白。这种拓展不仅存在于个罪中,在整个公共场所犯罪体系中均有体现。但允许拓展的同时,还需保持刑事法网扩张的克制,明确拓展之限度,从而维护好社会秩序与公众自由的价值平衡。

Public space crimes are among the few categories in criminal law where"crime and non-crime"are determined by the"crime space."With the advent of the metaverse,an epoch-making"Peach Blossom Spring"for humanity,it is crucial to systematically research the expansion of these crimes into this new digital realm.Unlike traditional cyberspace,the metaverse offers a three-dimensional,immersive environment,presenting new opportunities and challenges for criminal behavior.The potential for criminal activities to expand into the metaverse necessitates careful consideration.However,it is essential to exercise restraint in extending the criminal law framework to maintain a balance between social order and public freedom.This research is significant for developing an integrated concept of criminal law in China in the digital age.