Self-defense
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Self-defense (U.S. Spelling) or self defence (International) refers to actions taken by a person to prevent another person from causing harm to one's self, one's property or one's home.
While the term may define any form of personal defense, it is strongly associated with civilian hand-to-hand defense techniques.
Self-defense defines a civilian activity as opposed to Hand-to-hand combat in a military context.
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[edit] Forms of self-defense
[edit] Unarmed
Many styles of martial arts, usually Asian styles, such as Ju Jitsu, Karate, Taekwondo or Wushu are practiced for self-defense. Some styles train almost exclusively for self-defense (Wing Chun, Krav Maga), hereby putting emphasis on the bodies' weakest pressure-points [1]. Others still, are practiced for other reasons and not intended for self-defense at all (eg Tai-Chi, Tae Bo). However, some martial arts that are practiced primarily for sport, such as boxing or judo can be effectively applied for self-defense.
Self-defense courses are intended to give the layperson some instruction in self-defense in a short period of time.
[edit] Armed
- See also: Castle Doctrine
In some countries, it is legal to carry weapons (for example firearms or pepper spray) on one's person for purposes of self-defense. In other countries this may be illegal or may require license.
Everyday objects, such as body spray, can also be used for self-defense, however they are not likely to be as effective as purpose built weapons.
[edit] Personal Alarms
Personal alarms are a way to practice passive self-defense. A personal alarm is a small, hand-held device that emits strong, loud, high pitched sounds to deter attackers because the noise will draw the attention of passersby. Different models are available, including key chain alarms and child safety alarms designed to help parents keep kids safe. Child alarms often function as locators or device alarms such as triggering an alert when a swimming pool is in use to help prevent dangerous situations in addition to being a deterrant against would-be aggressors.[2]
Pepper spray and personal tasers are other personal alarm options that can be used in self-defense in a less passive way, but they are meant as deterrant and emergency measures rather than assault items.
[edit] National self-defense
In politics, the concept of national or mutual self-defense to counter a war of aggression refers to a defensive war organized by the state and is one possible criterion in the just war theory.
[edit] References
[edit] See also
- Hand to hand combat
- Martial arts
- Carrying concealed weapon
- Improvised weapon
- RBSD (Reality Based Self Defense)
- Self Defence Force
