Final answer:
Scottie Pippen contended he suffered from a loss of reputation and income in the case of Pippen v. NBC Universal Media, which can constitute defamation of character. Media outlets are protected under free speech but may be sued for publishing false information that causes harm. To win a defamation case, there must be proof of falsehood and either knowing or reckless disregard for the truth.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the case of Pippen v. NBC Universal Media, Scottie Pippen contended he suffered special damages due to the claim that his reputation was damaged (loss of reputation) and income, which can constitute defamation of character. Media outlets sometimes publish stories that are negative and harmful which can lead to a person experiencing a loss of reputation and income. However, the ability to sue for defamation is limited because the media have certain protections under the right to free speech. To successfully sue for libel or slander, the information published must be both false and delivered with either knowledge of its falsity or with reckless disregard for the truth.
Although newspapers and magazines often print negative or harmful stories, they can avoid lawsuits by reporting the truth or opinions, which are protected by the First Amendment. Still, should these publications circulate false information that can be demonstrated to cause damage to someone's reputation or income, they may indeed be held liable for defamation.
Answer: a) His reputation was damaged