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Which of the following describes a Tort of Negligence?

  1. Intentionally harming someone

  2. Failure to act in a reasonable way

  3. Involuntary manslaughter

  4. An assault that causes emotional distress

The correct answer is: Failure to act in a reasonable way

The description that captures the essence of a Tort of Negligence is the failure to act in a reasonable way. In the legal context, negligence occurs when an individual fails to exercise the standard of care that a reasonably prudent person would have provided in similar circumstances. This lack of reasonable action can lead to harm or injury to another party. The key aspect of negligence is that it does not involve intentional wrongdoing; rather, it involves a breach of duty that results in unintended harm. In contrast to negligence, other options reflect different legal concepts. Intentionally harming someone refers to intentional torts, where the deliberate actions of an individual cause harm to another. Involuntary manslaughter, a form of criminal law, involves unintentional killing resulting from reckless or negligent behavior but is distinct from tort law. Lastly, an assault causing emotional distress relates to intentional torts as well, requiring a purposeful act rather than a failure to act appropriately. Therefore, the focus on reasonable actions or omissions in option B distinctly defines Tort of Negligence.