ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT Defamation is a false statement of fact that is harmful to another’s reputation. Because defamation is a tort that allows individuals to sue for monetary damages, it creates a risk for journalists, other professional communicators, and average people. However, in the United States, defamation law also attempts to balance an individual’s interest in maintaining his reputation with our society’s commitment to freedom of expression. This chapter explains how the law applies to traditional media and online media and explores the many ways the law has adapted to-or struggled to adapt to-the new world of social media.
