libel, social media, anti-defamation law, internet, freedom of speech
Abstract
Protecting the freedom of speech has been at the forefront of every American discussion since the Constitution was first penned. Protection of our first amendment is a prerequisite for freedom, and served as a measure of Democracy even before the inception of the United States of America; but how far can the freedom of speech go? The judicial system has answered many of those concerns through precedent. Cases allow us to continually revise precedents and laws to fairly judge libel across all mediums. Social media and the internet have perplexed lawmakers who must adapt and redefine libel, defamation, or slander to ensure the protection of a human being’s character. To understand the modern world of libel, one must understand its past to continue advancements.
