mens rea

the malicious or blameworthy state of mind (Latin, “guilty mind”) that must be proved in addition to the actus reus to establish criminal responsibility and secure a conviction. It involves a conscious disregard for the law, which is presumed to be known by the defendant. For some crimes, the mens rea may be recklessness or negligence rather than a deliberate intention to bring about certain consequences. Also called criminal intent.

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Psychology term of the day

November 19th 2024

carbon dioxide

(formula: CO₂) a colorless, odorless, incombustible gas formed during respiration, decomposition of organic substances, and combustion. All life on earth is carbon based. The increasing CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere is considered to be a main cause of global warming.