What does the term "mala en se" refer to?

The term "mala en se" refers to acts that are inherently wrong by their very nature. This concept identifies behaviors that are universally recognized as immoral, regardless of the laws that may exist in a particular society. For example, crimes such as murder, sexual assault, and theft are considered mala en se because they violate fundamental ethical principles and are seen as harmful regardless of jurisdiction or specific legal statutes.

This classification is important in the context of criminal law and ethics, as it distinguishes between actions that are wrong in and of themselves versus those that are wrong primarily because they are prohibited by law. Understanding this distinction helps in analyzing the moral implications behind legal definitions and societal norms.