Which of the following describes "self-defense" in the context of tort law?

Self-defense in tort law refers specifically to the right of an individual to protect themselves from imminent harm. This concept allows a person to use reasonable force to protect themselves against an attack or threat. The key elements of self-defense include the necessity of belief that one is in immediate danger and that the force used in response must be proportional to the threat faced.

This understanding of self-defense legitimizes a person's actions when they are faced with an imminent threat to their safety. It is essential to note that for self-defense to be justified, the individual must respond to an actual or reasonably perceived threat, ensuring that their actions are not excessive but rather appropriate and necessary to avert harm.

The focus on the right to protect oneself highlights the balance between an individual’s right to bodily autonomy and the requirement to respond to threats in a lawful manner. Other choices, while related to the concepts of conflict and harm, do not capture the essence of self-defense as it is recognized in tort law.