What does "mala in se" describe?

The term "mala in se" refers to acts that are considered inherently wrong or evil, regardless of societal norms or laws. This concept is foundational in legal and ethical discussions, as it denotes actions that are universally regarded as immoral, such as murder, theft, or rape, which provoke an intrinsic sense of wrongdoing.

Unlike actions that may be deemed illegal solely due to the dictates of legal statutes (which could vary by jurisdiction), "mala in se" crimes are recognized across various cultures and legal systems as fundamentally immoral. This understanding helps to distinguish between different types of offenses, particularly when discussing the nature of certain actions and their implications in both moral and legal contexts.