What does the term 'ostrich instruction' refer to in legal contexts?

The term 'ostrich instruction' in legal contexts refers specifically to a jury instruction about mens rea, particularly focusing on a defendant's indifference to finding the truth. This concept draws its name from the idea that an ostrich buries its head in the sand to avoid danger, suggesting that a person may choose to ignore information or evidence that could be detrimental to them. In legal proceedings, an ostrich instruction can guide jurors to consider whether a defendant acted with a reckless disregard for the truth, acknowledging that a failure to seek out the truth can reflect a culpable mindset.

This instruction is significant because it addresses situations in which a defendant may not overtly lie but willfully remains ignorant of the facts. It essentially emphasizes that being willfully blind to the truth can still indicate a level of intent or culpability equivalent to knowing wrongdoing. Understanding this context is crucial for jurors when deliberating on cases where ignorance of the law or the facts can have legal repercussions.