What is the primary purpose of immunity?

The primary purpose of immunity is to protect against foreign antigens. The immune system is designed to identify and respond to pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and other harmful invaders, which are recognized as foreign substances. When these antigens are detected, the immune system mounts a defense through various mechanisms, including the activation of immune cells and the production of antibodies. This protection is crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases caused by infections.

While recognizing and destroying foreign substances is part of the immune response, the primary focus of immunity is on defense against harmful agents rather than all foreign substances indiscriminately. The continuous flow of antibodies, while important, is a feature of the immune response rather than its primary function. Enhancing pathogen reproduction is contrary to the goals of the immune system, which is aimed at eliminating threats to the body. Therefore, focusing on protection against foreign antigens encapsulates the essence of what immunity is fundamentally designed to do.