What term is used to describe actions that are inherently wrong, regardless of the law?

The term "mala en se" refers to actions that are inherently wrong or immoral, regardless of their legality. These are acts that are considered universally wrong in themselves, such as murder, theft, or assault. The concept emphasizes that certain actions are inherently harmful or unethical, which is recognized across various cultures and legal systems.

In contrast, "mala prohibita" describes actions that are considered wrong only because they are prohibited by law, not because they are inherently immoral. Examples of mala prohibita offenses include regulatory violations or licensing infractions, where the action may not be morally wrong in itself but is unlawful due to societal rules.

"Actus reus" is a legal term that refers to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense, while "mens rea" pertains to the mental state or intent of the individual committing the crime. Neither of these terms addresses the inherent morality of the acts themselves, focusing instead on the components of a crime. Therefore, the correct choice is "mala en se," as it signifies actions regarded as wrong by their very nature.