Glossary
Defamation
A false statement of fact, communicated to a third party, that damages someone's reputation.
US defamation law distinguishes between public figures (must prove "actual malice" — knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard) and private figures (lower bar). UK and EU defamation law generally puts more burden on the speaker. Opinion is not defamatory; only false statements of *fact* are. Truth is an absolute defense. Defamation is the legal mechanism most commonly weaponized via SLAPP suits to silence critics. See also: SLAPP, chilling effect.
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