Which of the following is an example of a mala in se crime?

• A. Prostitution
• B. Vagrancy
• C. Murder
• D. Public intoxication

Answer: (C)

Mala in se crimes are those that are inherently wrong or evil, and they are considered offenses that are universally condemned, often because they violate moral and ethical standards. Murder is a prime example of a mala in se crime, as it involves the taking of another person’s life, which is viewed as morally reprehensible across cultures and societies. The concept of murder being morally wrong is deeply ingrained, making it a fundamental violation of societal values.

In contrast, the other options represent mala prohibita crimes, which are offenses that are wrong because they are prohibited by law, rather than inherently immoral. Prostitution and vagrancy, for instance, can be regulated differently depending on jurisdiction and societal views, while public intoxication might be seen more as a disorderly conduct issue rather than an action that is morally reprehensible in itself. This distinction underscores the intrinsic nature of mala in se crimes, where the act itself is viewed as harmful and unacceptable regardless of legal definitions.