What aspect of tort law does the concept of 'duty' refer to?

The concept of 'duty' in tort law refers specifically to the obligation that individuals or entities have to act reasonably in order to avoid causing harm to others. This principle establishes a standard of care that must be met to prevent foreseeable injuries. When a person breaches this duty and causes harm, they may be found liable for negligence. It involves an expectation of conduct that aligns with societal norms for safety and care; therefore, the duty is foundational to many tort cases.

The other options, while related to legal obligations, do not directly address the concept of duty within tort law. The requirement to repay damages speaks to the compensation aspect of torts, while protections against wrongful termination and the responsibility to report illegal activities pertain more to employment law and criminal law, respectively, rather than to the concept of duty in the context of preventing harm.