What is the purpose of the defense of property?

The defense of property is primarily focused on allowing individuals to use reasonable force to protect their property. This means that when someone perceives that their property is at risk of being damaged or taken unlawfully, they are permitted to intervene in a manner that is proportionate to the threat. For instance, if someone tries to steal a lawn mower from a person's yard, the owner may confront the thief with a reasonable response to protect their property, but excessive force would not be justified.

This principle is rooted in the idea that individuals have a right to defend their possessions, but their response must be measured and appropriate to the situation. Using reasonable force recognizes the need for the defense of property while also respecting legal standards and the rights of others, thus preventing a situation where someone could justify causing significant harm over mere property disputes.