Question

When examining whether or not the mass media may be liable for intrusion when publishing or airing illegally obtained material, courts have generally found:

Answer 1

Courts have generally found that the media do not have the right to commit slander or libel. The standards for libel differ between private individuals and public figures.

Step-by-step explanation:

When examining whether or not the mass media may be liable for invasion when publishing or airing illegally obtained material, courts have generally found that the media do not have the right to commit slander or libel. Slander refers to speaking false information with an intent to harm a person or entity, while libel refers to printing false information with an intent to harm a person or entity. However, when it comes to private individuals and public figures, the standards for libel differ. Public figures must show that the publisher or broadcaster acted with "reckless disregard" or with malicious intent, while private individuals have different arguments available, such as negligence or invasion of privacy.