Chapter Four—Torts and Cyber Torts
“Tort more or less means ‘wrong’”
Learning Objectives
1. State the purpose of tort law
2. Identify some intentional torts against persons and property
3. Name the four elements of negligence
4. Define strict liability, and list some circumstances in which it will be applied
5. Summarize the laws protecting trademarks, patents, and copyrights
6. Have a clear understanding of cyber torts, and how tort theories are being applied in cyberspace
Through tort law, society compensates those who have suffered injuries as a result of the wrongful conduct of others. Society recognizes an interest in personal physical safety, an interest in protecting real and personal property, and an interest in protecting certain intangible interests, such as personal privacy, family relations, reputation, and dignity. Tort law provides remedies for invasion of these protected interests. Also wrongful interference with others’ business rights is a business tort including the right to protect trademarks, patents, copyrights, and other property resulting from intellectual processes.
