Entity: VIGILANTE
A vigilante is a member of a volunteer committee organized to suppress and punish crime summarily, often viewed as a self-appointed doer of justice.
VIGILANTE
Etymology
The term 'vigilante' originates from the word 'vigilant,' meaning to keep a watchful eye on events and people.
Definition
A vigilante is a self-appointed individual who takes the law into their own hands to prevent crime or punish criminals, often due to a perceived inadequacy of legal processes.
Historical Context
Vigilantism has a long history, with groups forming to address crime in areas where law enforcement is lacking or perceived as ineffective. Vigilante justice has been both praised and criticized throughout history.
Cultural Significance
Vigilantes have been portrayed in various forms of media, often as antiheroes seeking justice outside the law. The concept of vigilantism raises ethical questions about the balance between individual rights and collective security.
Related Concepts
Related concepts to vigilantes include vigilantism, citizen's arrest, and neighborhood watch programs.
See Also
A vigilante is a self-appointed individual who takes the law into their own hands to prevent crime or punish criminals, often due to a perceived inadequacy of legal processes.