Read the article and answer the questions.
http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/4.03/letitdie.html
1. In this article, author Mike Godwin asserts that libel law is “obsolete” and has “never
been much of a remedy for regular folks in the modern era.” What reasons does
Godwin list to support this assertion?
2. How does Godwin use the Gertz case to show that libel laws may be on “the verge of
obsolescence”? (Note: the Gertz case is also explained in the first article used in this
lesson.)
3. Throughout his column, Godwin notes court cases where individuals have asserted
their reputations were “besmirched” by Web sites or in online forums hosted by
Internet service providers. Do you think there is a difference between comment and
criticism in print and broadcast media versus the same on an Internet Web site, chat
room, or public message board? Explain your answer.
4. How does Godwin note that a person who feels he’s been defamed can take “his
defamer” to task on the Web? Does this seem like an effective remedy to you?
Explain your answer.