Which constitutional right protects individuals from being forced to testify against themselves?

The correct answer is the right against self-incrimination, which is a fundamental constitutional protection found primarily in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution. This right ensures that individuals cannot be compelled to provide testimony or evidence that may incriminate themselves during legal proceedings. The principle behind this protection is rooted in the idea that it is unjust to force a person to participate in their own prosecution, as doing so could lead to wrongful convictions or coercive tactics by the state.

The right against self-incrimination allows individuals to refuse to answer questions or provide statements that may implicate them in criminal activity. This right is a crucial element of ensuring fair trial standards and is designed to uphold the dignity and rights of individuals within the legal system.