Final answer:
Defamation, which includes both libel (written) and slander (spoken), is the act of releasing false information damaging to a person's character. The media can avoid defamation suits through opinion protections and high standards for proof of 'actual malice' in the cases of public figures. The correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
Releasing information to the public in either a written or spoken format that is construed to be damaging to a person's character or reputation or standing within the community is called defamation. There are two types of defamation: libel, which relates to written defamatory statements, and slander, which concerns spoken statements.
Although the media do not have the right to commit libel or slander, they are sometimes able to publish negative stories without being sued due to protections for opinions and differences in standards applied to private and public figures. In landmark cases such as New York Times v. Sullivan (1964), the Supreme Court has set a high bar for public figures to claim defamation of character - they must show that the publisher acted with 'actual malice' - either with knowledge that the information was false or with reckless disregard for its truth.
Hence, Option D is correct.