Self-Defense Theories

Self-defense theories explain when and how a person can justifiably use force to protect themselves from harm. They generally state that defensive action is permissible if there's an immediate threat, the response is proportional to the danger, and the person genuinely believed they were in danger. Some theories include the "Reasonable Person" standard, meaning a typical individual would see the threat as real, and the "Necessity" principle, where force is only used to prevent greater harm. These theories help determine whether an individual's actions are justified or criminal in a legal context.