What degree of arson involves the potential endangerment of human life?

The degree of arson that involves the potential endangerment of human life is first-degree arson. This classification typically signifies that the act of arson was committed in a manner that posed a significant risk of injury or death to individuals in the vicinity. In many jurisdictions, including Georgia, first-degree arson is charged when the fire is set to a structure that is occupied or near people, highlighting the serious nature of the offense due to the imminent danger it creates for human life.

In contrast, the other degrees of arson, while still serious offenses, may not necessarily involve the same level of threat to human life. Second-degree arson might pertain to structures that may be abandoned or not necessarily occupied, while third-degree arson could involve property that is not a dwelling or could be less serious in nature. Arson by negligence suggests that the act was unintentional and may lack the malicious intent that characterizes the higher degrees of arson.

Thus, first-degree arson correctly represents the highest level of threat to human life associated with the crime of arson, making it the appropriate answer.