Definitions
- Referring to a written or published false statement that harms someone's reputation. - Talking about a defamatory statement that is permanent and can be reproduced. - Describing a statement that is made with malicious intent or reckless disregard for the truth.
- Referring to a false statement that harms someone's reputation. - Talking about a statement that is communicated to a third party. - Describing a statement that is made with malicious intent or reckless disregard for the truth.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve false statements that harm someone's reputation.
- 2Both can result in legal action.
- 3Both require malicious intent or reckless disregard for the truth.
- 4Both can be permanent and reproduced.
- 5Both can be communicated to a third party.
What is the difference?
- 1Form: Libel refers specifically to written or published false statements, while defamation can refer to both spoken and written false statements.
- 2Scope: Defamation is a broader term that includes both libel and slander (spoken false statements).
- 3Severity: Libel is often considered more severe than defamation due to its permanent nature and potential for wider dissemination.
- 4Proof: Libel requires proof of publication, while defamation only requires proof of communication to a third party.
- 5Remedies: The remedies for libel and defamation may differ depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the case.
Remember this!
Libel and defamation are both terms used to describe false statements that harm someone's reputation. However, libel specifically refers to written or published false statements, while defamation can refer to both spoken and written false statements. Both require malicious intent or reckless disregard for the truth, can result in legal action, and have similar effects on the victim's reputation. However, libel is often considered more severe due to its permanent nature and potential for wider dissemination.
