This Nutshell provides a comprehensive explanation of the basic principles and rules of American tort law as it exists today. This Nutshell has been used for over twenty-five years by law students, law graduates preparing for the bar exam, and others seeking an overview of tort topics. Coverage includes intentional torts and defenses, negligence and its defenses, strict liability, special liability rules for particular activities (such as landowners’ liability, products liability, employers, employees, and contractors, and others), damages, the relation between tort and contract, immunities, survival and wrongful death, defamation, privacy, and misrepresentation. The introductory chapter provides background on the definitional dilemma; functions, goals and justifications of tort law; the evolution of tort law; and the roles of judges and juries. Citations to the Restatement of Torts are included. Discussions frequently include not only the rule but also its! rationale for a clearer understanding and to aid memory.