Which amendment protects against self-incrimination?

The Fifth Amendment is the correct choice because it explicitly protects individuals from being compelled to testify against themselves in criminal cases, thereby safeguarding the right against self-incrimination. This principle emphasizes the notion that individuals should not be forced to provide evidence or statements that could potentially incriminate themselves in a court of law.

The Fifth Amendment also encompasses several other rights, such as the right to due process and protection against double jeopardy, but its specific language surrounding self-incrimination is what distinguishes it as a vital component of legal protections for defendants. The idea is rooted in the belief that the government should carry the burden of proof in a criminal case, rather than forcing an individual to provide testimony that could be self-damaging. This protection plays a crucial role in promoting a fair judicial process and maintains the integrity of the justice system.