Mass Communication Law (5th Edition)

Author: (USA) Carter et al
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: The content of this book covers the following important issues. Chapter 1 introduces the Constitutional Amendments as the core norms of American media law. The authors review the background of the Amendments and elaborate in detail the basic theories and important application rules of the Amendments developed through judicial interpretations by the U.S. Federal Supreme Court. Chapter 2 primarily deals with the conflict between defamation and mass communication. The authors provide a detailed introduction to the definition and elements of defamation under common law, the distinction between libel and slander, theories of tort liability, remedies, and common law theories on preventing defamation. Chapter 3 primarily introduces privacy and mass communication. The authors provide a detailed introduction to the legal development of privacy rights in the United States and the contemporary theories of the Amendments in the U.S. Chapter 4 introduces legal restrictions on obscene expression, including general theories, classic cases, and special areas restricting expressions related to sex. Chapter 5 introduces the legal background and important cases regarding the restriction of journalism and publishing for national security purposes. Chapter 6 primarily analyzes the conflict and coordination between freedom of the press and fair trial. Chapter 7 primarily introduces the freedom related to gathering news and information. Chapter 8 primarily deals with the professional privileges of journalists, legal protections for the journalistic profession, and litigation involving news sources. Chapter 9 primarily introduces the rules regarding commercial speech. Chapter 10 primarily analyzes the rules for broadcasting and television. Chapter 11 introduces the impact of cable networks and new technologies on media law and the corresponding legal rules. Chapter 12 introduces legal issues related to the internet.