Libel VS. Slander

Libel and Slander are both forms of defamation, which is the act of making false statements about someone that harm their reputation or character. While both terms are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between them.

Libel is a written or published statement that damages someone's reputation, while slander is a spoken statement that does the same. In other words, libel is a form of defamation that occurs through print or electronic media (e.g., newspapers, websites, social media platforms), while slander occurs through verbal communication (e.g., face-to-face conversations, phone calls, radio broadcasts).

The purposes of libel and slander are similar: to damage someone's reputation, ruin their relationships, or even cause financial harm. However, libel has historically been seen as more serious and consequential because of its wider reach and permanence. Once something is published, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to completely erase it from the public record.

Examples of libel include

1. A news article falsely accusing a politician of accepting bribes.

2. A blog post claiming that a celebrity has a secret drug addiction.

3. A social media post sharing an unverified story about someone's personal life.

Examples of slander include

1. A person telling others that a business owner is running an illegal operation.

2. A friend spreading rumors about another friend's sexual behavior.

3. A colleague making derogatory remarks about a coworker's professional abilities.

The key difference between libel and slander is the medium through which the false statement is communicated. Libel is written or published, while slander is spoken. This difference is important because it affects the reach and permanence of the defamatory statement.

Tips for avoiding libel or slander

1. Always check the accuracy of information before publishing or sharing it.

2. Use reputable sources when citing facts or statistics.

3. Be cautious when sharing rumors or unverified information, as they could easily be considered libel or slander.

4. If you are unsure whether something you want to publish or share might be defamatory, consult with an attorney or media professional for guidance.