Slander

Definition

Slander refers to the act of making false spoken statements that damage a person's reputation. It is a form of defamation, which involves communication that harms someone's character or standing in society. This term is especially significant in media writing, where the spoken word can be easily disseminated, leading to potentially severe consequences for both the speaker and the subject of the slanderous remarks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Slander is typically considered less harmful than libel since it is transient; spoken words may not leave a permanent record like written statements.
2. To win a slander case, the plaintiff must prove that the statements made were false, damaging, and made with negligence or actual malice.
3. Public figures have a higher burden of proof in slander cases, needing to show that the statements were made with actual malice.
4. Slander can lead to significant legal repercussions for media professionals who fail to verify information before broadcasting it.
5. Certain defenses against slander include truth, opinion, and privilege, where the latter may apply in specific contexts like government proceedings.

Review Questions

• How does slander differ from libel in terms of legal implications and evidence required in a defamation case?
  • Slander differs from libel primarily in that slander involves spoken statements, while libel pertains to written ones. Legally, slander is often viewed as less harmful due to its transient nature, but it still requires the plaintiff to prove that the statements were false and damaging. Furthermore, public figures need to demonstrate actual malice in slander cases, making the burden of proof more challenging compared to private individuals.
• Discuss the potential consequences for media writers who engage in slanderous speech when reporting on public figures or events.
  • Media writers who engage in slanderous speech risk facing significant legal consequences, including lawsuits for defamation. If they fail to verify their information before reporting it, they not only damage their own credibility but also put their publication at risk for costly legal battles. Furthermore, the impact of such actions can extend beyond financial implications, as they may lead to public backlash and a loss of audience trust.
• Evaluate how the principles of truth and privilege serve as defenses against slander claims in the context of media writing.
  • In media writing, truth serves as a primary defense against slander claims; if a statement can be proven true, it negates liability for defamation. Privilege also plays a crucial role, particularly in situations involving government proceedings or official reports where reporters can share information without fear of slander suits. Evaluating these defenses highlights the importance of journalistic integrity and responsibility in protecting oneself while informing the public.

Related terms

libel:

Libel involves making false written statements about someone that damage their reputation, distinct from slander, which pertains to spoken statements.

defamation: Defamation is the broader legal term encompassing both slander and libel; it refers to any communication that unjustly harms another's reputation.

privacy invasion: This refers to situations where an individual's private life is intruded upon without consent, which can be connected to defamation when private facts are disclosed.