What is the definition of negligence?

The definition of negligence focuses on the failure to act in a manner that a reasonable person would, leading to potential harm or injury to another individual. This principle highlights the importance of duty of care in preventing harm and ensuring safety. When someone fails to uphold this responsibility, and as a result, injury or damage occurs, it exemplifies negligence. This concept is critical in legal contexts, particularly in personal injury cases, where the injured party must demonstrate that the other party’s lack of action or oversight directly contributed to their harm.

In this context, the other options do not align with the legal definition of negligence. For instance, forcing someone to comply reflects an exercise of authority or coercion, which does not pertain to the absence of action. Careless actions taken without regard for safety might suggest carelessness, but it doesn't specifically address the aspect of failing to act responsibly in relation to preventing harm, which is central to negligence. Lastly, conspiring to commit a crime entails intentional wrongdoing and has no association with the concept of neglecting duty or care. Thus, the focus on failure to act as a defining element of negligence makes this choice accurate.