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competition for resources

in ecology, the use of the same resource by individuals of the same species (intraspecific competition) or of different species (interspecific competition) when the supply of the resource is insufficient for the combined needs of all individuals. It is a major factor in natural selection. Also called struggle for existence. See also Darwinism; survival of the fittest.

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Psychology term of the day

January 20th 2025

incompetence

incompetence

n.

1. the inability to carry out a required task or activity adequately.

2. in law, the inability of a defendant to participate meaningfully in criminal proceedings, which include all elements of the criminal justice system, from initial interrogation to sentencing. Defendants who do not have the ability to communicate with attorneys or understand the proceedings may be ruled incompetent to stand trial (see competency to stand trial). See also Dusky standard.

3. in law, the inability to make sound judgments regarding one’s transactions or personal affairs. See legal capacity. Also called incompetency. Compare competence. —incompetent adj.