What is the definition of insurance?

The definition of insurance fundamentally revolves around the concept of risk management and the transfer of risk from one party to another. The correct answer highlights that insurance involves one party undertaking the responsibility to indemnify another party in the event of a loss. This means that if a policyholder suffers a loss due to certain risks, the insurance company is obligated to provide compensation or financial support based on the terms of the policy. This aspect of indemnification is crucial, as it reassures individuals and businesses that they can recover from financial losses due to unforeseen events, thereby providing a safety net.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate the essence of insurance. The concept of a social contract between individuals is too broad and does not specifically refer to financial protection against risks. Describing insurance as an undertaking to provide food in times of crisis is also misleading, as it narrows the focus to a specific type of support that isn't reflective of the comprehensive nature of insurance products. Lastly, claiming insurance is a guarantee of financial wealth is inaccurate; while insurance aims to protect against loss, it does not promise wealth but rather seeks to mitigate financial hardship resulting from adverse events. These distinctions underscore why the correct definition emphasizes the obligation of indemnity in the context of insurance.