Which of the following is NOT a method of proving character?

Which of the following is NOT a method of proving character?

• A. Reputation
• B. Opinion
• C. Motive
• D. Conduct

Answer: (C)

Proving character relies on showing a person's general traits through how others view them or through direct opinions about their character, and, in some cases, through conduct that reflects a trait. Motive, on the other hand, is about the reason or mental state behind a specific act—why someone did it—not about what kind of person they are overall. Because motive targets intent rather than character traits, it isn’t used as a method to prove character. That’s why motive is not a method of proving character, while reputation and opinion about character (and sometimes relevant conduct) are.

Proving character relies on showing a person's general traits through how others view them or through direct opinions about their character, and, in some cases, through conduct that reflects a trait. Motive, on the other hand, is about the reason or mental state behind a specific act—why someone did it—not about what kind of person they are overall. Because motive targets intent rather than character traits, it isn’t used as a method to prove character. That’s why motive is not a method of proving character, while reputation and opinion about character (and sometimes relevant conduct) are.