The legal doctrine that holds a principal liable for the actions of their agent is known as:

The legal doctrine that holds a principal liable for the actions of their agent is known as respondeat superior. This principle is particularly significant in the context of employer-employee relationships, where an employer (the principal) can be held responsible for the negligent acts of their employees (agents) performed within the scope of employment. The underlying rationale is that the employer benefits from the employee's work; therefore, it is fair that they also bear some responsibility for the actions taken in the course of that employment.

Respondeat superior reflects the idea that the actions of an agent, when carried out in the service of the principal's interests, create a direct link to the principal's liability. This doctrine reinforces the importance of supervision and training within organizations, as principals must take steps to ensure that their agents act within their authority and in a responsible manner.

In contrast, the other terms referenced do not embody the same principle. "Plain agency" simply refers to a straightforward relationship where an agent acts on behalf of a principal but does not automatically imply liability. "Master-servant" is an older term that describes the employer-employee relationship but does not capture the legal implications in the same way. "Strict liability" refers to situations where a party is held liable regardless of