Final answer:
An intentional tort involves conduct where the defendant intentionally performs a physical act that results in injury to someone, regardless of whether the harm was the intended consequence of the act.
Step-by-step explanation:
An intentional tort involves conduct in which the defendant intended a certain physical act which ends up injuring someone. This means that they had the purpose to perform an act that they believed would bring about certain consequences or had the knowledge to a substantial certainty that such consequences would ensue from their actions. An intentional tort is not based on negligence or oversight but on deliberate actions. Despite the intended outcome, if the action results in unintended harm, the defendant may still be liable for the damages caused.
In terms of legal responsibility, it doesn't matter whether the outcomes were unintended, as under utilitarian principles, an agent's intent and character aren't as relevant as the scope of the consequences. However, in a civil law context, the intent behind the act can be a significant factor in determining culpability for the harm caused. Moreover, an intentional tort differs from criminal cases where the plaintiff is always the government and seeks to punish violations of law, possibly including prison time.