Is it illegal to write an e-book about something illegal?

[John L]

For example, if I write a book entitled, "How to Rob a Liquor Store" and explain in precise details what steps need to be taken to achieve this, can I be fined? That's not going to be the title of my book, btw.

[ruthaford_jive]

I'm going to make the argument that there can be more than one way to successfully rob a liquor store... so unless it's a multi-path how to guide to becoming a liquor store robber... then it wouldn't do too well... hmm... anyway, I'm gonna have to say it is... not illegal... except that it might be. This is actually a good question, too bad I don't have a good answer.

[joe s]

For writing the book, no. However if someone gets harmed and can prove that it was a direct result of something you published, you may be held liable on civil charges.

[K R]

Nope. Unless you actually commit the crime, its not illegal. Just think about it this way, You know the people who write murder stories and the CSI/NCIS television shows? They'd all be in prision because they wrote precise details on how to commit murder.

[malibu]

People write "How to Commit Murder" books all the time. I am pretty sure it is NOT illegal. However, If say for example, I read a "How to Commit Murder" book and get caught after I do the deed, I can claim that YOUR book told me how and gave me the ideas and you could be in a legal fight.

[No. 5]

well as the first amendment says....
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

you can write about anything
now if people like it or not that is a different question.
but thats their opinion