Question

Which legal doctrine evolved from the landmark case of Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932)?

• A. Volenti non fit injuria
• B. Strict Liability
• C. Negligence
• D. Absolute Liability

Hint:

Remember: Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932) \[ \Longrightarrow \] Snail in the Bottle Case \[ \Longrightarrow \] Neighbour Principle \[ \Longrightarrow \] Modern Law of Negligence \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932) is one of the most important cases in the history of tort law. It fundamentally transformed the modern law of negligence by establishing the concept of a duty of care owed to consumers.

Step 1: Examine the facts of the case. The case arose when Mrs. Donoghue consumed ginger beer purchased by her friend. After consuming part of the drink, she discovered the decomposed remains of a snail inside the bottle. She became ill and sought compensation from the manufacturer.

Step 2: Identify the legal problem. Mrs. Donoghue had no contractual relationship with the manufacturer because her friend had purchased the drink. Traditionally, this absence of a contract would prevent recovery. The court therefore had to determine whether the manufacturer owed a legal duty directly to the consumer.

Step 3: Understand Lord Atkin's Neighbour Principle. Lord Atkin stated that individuals must take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions that could foreseeably harm persons closely and directly affected by their actions. This became known as the

Neighbour Principle.

Step 4: Determine the doctrine established. The decision established the modern doctrine of negligence based upon:

• Duty of Care

• Breach of Duty

• Resulting Damage
These elements remain central to negligence law today.

Conclusion: The landmark case of Donoghue v. Stevenson laid the foundation of the modern law of

Negligence. Therefore,

Option (C) is correct.