What is "self-defense" according to the Penal Code?

Self-defense is defined as a legal justification for using force to protect oneself from imminent harm. This concept is grounded in the principle that individuals have the right to defend themselves when they face an immediate threat or danger. The essence of self-defense lies in the need to respond to a situation where one's safety is compromised, allowing for reasonable force to be used against an aggressor.

In legal terms, self-defense does not endorse the use of excessive force or allow for violence in all situations; rather, it is specifically applicable in circumstances where there is a clear and immediate risk of harm. This justification requires that the response to the threat be proportionate to the danger faced, meaning one cannot escalate the situation beyond what is necessary for protection.

The other options do not accurately capture the legal framework surrounding self-defense. While violence may sometimes be involved in self-defense actions, it is not an excuse for all types of violence, as that would undermine the proportionality requirement. Moreover, self-defense is not applicable for preemptive strikes or non-violent crimes, where there isn't an imminent threat necessitating a defensive action. Thus, the correct definition underscores the importance of self-defense as a measured and lawful response to immediate dangers.