Slander

Definition

Slander refers to the act of making false spoken statements that damage a person's reputation. This form of defamation can have serious legal consequences, particularly in the context of journalism, where reporting on traumatic events may involve sensitive information about individuals. Journalists must be cautious, as slander can arise from carelessly reported facts or unchecked rumors that lead to reputational harm.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Slander is considered a type of defamation that specifically involves spoken words, as opposed to libel, which is written.
2. In order for a statement to be classified as slander, it must be proven to be false and damaging to the individual's reputation.
3. Public figures have a higher burden of proof in slander cases, needing to demonstrate actual malice on the part of the speaker.
4. Journalists must verify information carefully to avoid slander, as unverified claims can lead to lawsuits and loss of credibility.
5. The legal consequences of slander can include monetary damages awarded to the injured party if they successfully prove their case in court.

Review Questions

• How does slander differ from libel in terms of its legal implications for journalists?
  • Slander differs from libel mainly in its medium; slander involves spoken statements while libel pertains to written statements. For journalists, this distinction matters because while both forms of defamation can lead to legal consequences, slander requires proving that the spoken words were false and damaging. Additionally, since slanderous statements can be made more casually in conversation or broadcasts, journalists must be particularly vigilant about verifying their facts to avoid potential lawsuits.
• What must a public figure prove in a slander case, and why does this standard exist?
  • A public figure must prove actual malice in a slander case, meaning they need to show that the statement was made knowingly false or with reckless disregard for its truth. This standard exists to protect freedom of speech and allow for open discussion about public figures who play significant roles in society. It prevents public figures from easily suing for slander over every negative comment and encourages responsible journalism while maintaining a balance between reputation and free expression.
• Evaluate the potential impact of slanderous reporting on victims of traumatic events within media coverage.
  • Slanderous reporting on victims of traumatic events can have devastating effects on individuals' lives, causing emotional distress and further victimization. Such reporting may damage reputations, hinder recovery efforts, or create public misconceptions about the incident or individuals involved. Additionally, it can lead to a broader distrust in media coverage and deter individuals from coming forward with their stories or seeking help. The ethical responsibility of journalists is heightened in these situations as they must navigate sensitive narratives without compromising accuracy and dignity.

Related terms

Libel: Libel is a form of defamation that involves making false written statements about someone that damage their reputation, similar to slander but in a permanent medium.

Defamation: Defamation is the overarching term that encompasses both slander and libel, referring to any false statement that injures someone's reputation.

Actual Malice: Actual malice refers to the standard of proof in defamation cases involving public figures, where the plaintiff must prove that the defendant made a false statement knowingly or with reckless disregard for the truth.