Final answer:
Written defamation of character is known as libel. Newspapers print negative stories without constant lawsuits due to freedoms protected by the New York Times v. Sullivan case, which requires public figures to prove actual malice for a successful libel claim, a standard that does not apply to private individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term associated with torts that is described as written defamation of character is libel. Libel involves publishing false statements about a person that can harm their reputation or income. Newspapers and magazines are able to print stories that may be seen as negative without always being sued because of certain protections in place.
Freedom of Expression ensures that media have some leeway to publish without the risk of constant litigation, especially when it concerns public figures. According to the New York Times v. Sullivan case, a public figure must prove that a statement was made with actual malice—meaning it was known to be false or was published with reckless disregard for the truth. In contrast, a private individual may have a lower threshold for proving defamation.
However, there are also restrictions on freedom of expression which include libel along with slander, threats, and other types of unprotected speech. While opinions are protected, presenting false information as fact with the intention to harm is not protected and can constitute libel or slander, depending on whether it is written or spoken.