Which legal principle from R v. Blaue emphasizes the concept of an ‘eggshell skull’?

The principle emphasized in R v. Blaue is that a victim's prior condition should not affect the defendant's liability for their actions. This case established the idea that a defendant is liable for the full extent of the harm caused, regardless of the victim's pre-existing vulnerabilities or conditions. The "eggshell skull" rule asserts that a defendant must take their victim as they find them, meaning they are responsible for any consequential harm that results from the victim's unique physical state or psychological condition.

In Blaue, the victim's refusal to accept a blood transfusion due to her religious beliefs led to her death after a stabbing. The court held that the defendant was liable for her death despite her refusal to undergo medical treatment, reinforcing that a defendant cannot escape liability by pointing to the victim's pre-existing beliefs or conditions. This principle highlights that the legal responsibility of the defendant extends to all consequences of their actions, regardless of whether those consequences were predictable or reasonable.

This understanding clarifies the doctrine of liability, ensuring that vulnerable victims are afforded protection under the law, and that aggressors cannot avoid accountability for their actions based on the victim’s circumstances.