Yes, that would be another effective way of getting the point across. However, the fish were not really at an increased risk of danger than normal. If a goldfish is kept in a bowl in your home, it could very possibly be knocked over at any time. The chance of one of the blenders being knocked over was probably close to just as likely to happen as someone turning on the blender.

And no, the end doesn't necessarily justify the means. The thing he was trying to communicate could have been comprehended regardless of if someone turned on the blender. The point was the power of responsibility and choice, not the action of making that choice.

I agree that not helping people is a crime. As an EMT, I am legally responsible to help people in need, regardless of whether I am working. And if I had been there, I would have tried my best to prevent people from turning on the blenders. Which says a lot not only about the people who pushed the button, but also everyone else who stood and watched. Very similar to people who turn away when they see girls getting harrassed on trains or people being robbed.

As for how I found this thread, there is a link to it on Evaristti's web site: http://www.evaristti.com/work/installation/HELENA/index.htm

He included multiple articles and forums, both good and bad. The Dave Barry one especially made me angry.