Define the 'rule of the specific'.

• A. If two rules conflict, the general provision prevails.
• B. If two rules conflict, the special or local provision prevails as an exception to the general provision.
• C. The most recent rule always prevails.
• D. The oldest rule prevails.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that when two rules could apply but point to different requirements, the one that is more specific to the situation controls. The rule of the specific says a special or local provision takes precedence as an exception to the general rule. In practice, that means if a general rule covers a broad situation, but there’s a more specific rule that applies to a particular place, group, or circumstance, you follow the specific rule in that context. This preserves general guidance while allowing tailored requirements where needed.

As a result, a general rule does not override a more specific provision; instead, the specific provision governs in its domain. If no specific rule applies, then the general rule governs. The other options describe timing or birth order concepts that aren’t how conflicts are resolved here.