This module is the fourth in a series of six that the faculty of the Carter Journalism Institute at NYU has developed to expose students to core ethical and legal issues underscoring journalism as it is practiced in the United States. In this module we look at defamation, libel, slander and invasion of privacy in theory and practice throughout journalism’s history.
Each module in this Journalism Ethics & Law series takes about 90 minutes to complete. At the end of each is a knowledge check quiz, which, to receive credit, you must complete.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
Have a clear understanding of defamation as it has developed over time.
Define defamation, slander and libel and be clear on their respective differences.
Note the different ways the law treats private citizens v. public figures.
Cite major defamation cases including, Sullivan v. New York Times, Teddy Roosevelt v. Joseph Pulitzer, CBS v. Big Tobacco, and ABC v. Food Lion.
Understand how to avoid committing libel, slander, and defamation of character, and know what the potential penalties could be.
Grasp what invasion of privacy is and know the facts surrounding the Gawker v. Hulk Hogan lawsuit.