The Meaning of Self-Defense

The Meaning of Self-Defense in Various Fields

The compound word self-defense may have different meanings. In law, it could mean protection of the person against injury attempted or inflicted by another person. It is an action taken by the victim against the inflictions attempted to be conducted by the aggressor. It could also refer to the defensive action that can rightfully be made by those who are being charged with criminal charges or civil claims.

In military, self-defense is the duty of the commander and military personnel to take appropriate actions by any means to defend the territory against any aggression or hostile acts or intent made by another country, state or nation or by terrorists. However, defensive actions of the military should not exceed to counter the forces used by the aggressive country or by the terrorists.

For a lay man, self-defense could mean prevention or protection. Taking supplements and engaging in exercises, being fit and living a healthy dynamic life are the ways a man should do to protect himself from bad forces such as sickness or any possible mild injury. Those acts can also be used as means for prevention.

Aside from protecting oneself from any ailments, self-defense popularly refers to the acts or strategies in martial arts. They are learned and applied by any person who wants to protect the physical aspect of the body against any aggressions that could possibly bring them harm, injury or even death.

Martial art is the popular form of self-defense. In this modern world, men and women and even children can learn the ways of the martial artist through rigid practice, knowledge and discipline. Physical contact is mostly dealt in martial arts. The strategies and ways can vary as there are different kinds of martial arts.

The soft styles of martial arts are mostly practiced by children and aged people. They can also be learned and applied by women. Among these are Wen-Do, Judo and Aikido. Some forms of martial arts can be used in combat actions such as Kung-fu, Karate and Taekwondo.

The use of martial art strategies can be more than just self-defense. It can be used for discipline, for character development, fitness and for building self-confidence. Other scopes of martial arts can be found these days. They are not just meant to the traditional East Asian combat skills and disciplinary practices.

Self-defense can be referred to and applied in different fields. Nevertheless, the word literally means protection of one-self, one’s country and one’s principle from any bad forces.