IRRESISTIBLE IMPULSE Meaning and
Definition
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Irresistible impulse is a legal term used to define a lack of control or power to resist committing an act, despite knowing it is wrongful or illegal. It refers to a specific type of mental state or condition where an individual is compelled to act on an uncontrollable impulse, which overrides their ability to make rational decisions or control their behavior. This term is predominantly used within the context of legal defenses, particularly in criminal law cases.
The concept of irresistible impulse emerged as an extension of the insanity defense, aiming to further examine and understand the behavioral aspects of mental disorders. It suggests that individuals suffering from certain mental illnesses, such as certain personality disorders or neurological conditions, may experience a loss of control over their actions due to an overpowering impulse or compulsion.
For the defense of irresistible impulse to be successful, it must be proven that the accused individual suffered from a mental ailment that impaired their ability to control their actions and that this impairment directly resulted in the commission of the offense. This defense aims to mitigate the accused person's level of culpability, suggesting that their actions were a product of their mental state rather than a conscious and rational decision.
However, it is important to note that the defense of irresistible impulse is not universally recognized or accepted in all jurisdictions. Some legal systems consider it as a variant of the insanity defense, while others might have specific criteria and standards for its application.
Common Misspellings for IRRESISTIBLE IMPULSE
- urresistible impulse
- jrresistible impulse
- krresistible impulse
- orresistible impulse
- 9rresistible impulse
- 8rresistible impulse
- ieresistible impulse
- idresistible impulse
- ifresistible impulse
- itresistible impulse
- i5resistible impulse
- i4resistible impulse
- ireesistible impulse
- irdesistible impulse
- irfesistible impulse
- irtesistible impulse
- ir5esistible impulse
- ir4esistible impulse
- irrwsistible impulse
Etymology of IRRESISTIBLE IMPULSE
The word "irresistible" is derived from the Latin word "irresistibilis", which is a combination of "in-" (meaning "not") and "resistere" (meaning "to resist"). Essentially, "irresistible" means unable to be resisted.
The word "impulse" has its roots in the Latin word "impulsus", which comes from "impellere" (meaning "to push against"). It originally referred to a sudden forceful movement or thrust.
The phrase "irresistible impulse" is particularly associated with the legal concept of a mental state that prevents a person from restraining their actions. It emerged in the early 19th century in the context of criminal law, specifically related to criminal responsibility and insanity defense.
