Week 5: Discussion One and two

Bryan Nelson1 Response

Bryan Nelson:

The Freedom of speech and expression in the U.S protects Americans especially the media when they give information that is of public interest. In this case, Howard can be depicted as a public figure meaning the media keeps a close watch over his moves. As Howard is a public figure, I agree with you that Howard cannot prove that the information released was private facts. The file received by the media was from the court house. Do you think the aspect of taking picture from Howard’s private residence is intrusion to his private life?

Barbara Grady

Troy Neal5 Response

Troy Neal:

Advancement in technology has enhanced sharing of information in such a way that the mainstream media is forced to transform. I agree with you that Internet laws also continues to change as new aspects of internet management crops in. However, you state that the blog style website could be compelled to give identity of their anonymous bloggers. Do you think this is against the First Amendment where journalists and bloggers are protected under the Freedom of speech and expression? What do you think is required in order to subject an issue as defamation?

References

United States Congress. (1996). 47 U.S. Code § 230 - Protection for private blocking and screening of offensive material. Retrieved from https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/47/230

Tolanda Carroll4 Response

Tolanda Carroll:

The issue of blogging and privacy protection continues to elicit mixed reactions especially with increased use of the Internet. Information is readily available through online means even before mainstream media catches up with the story. I agree with you that tyrannical language cannot be protected by the First Amendment under the freedom of speech and expression. In this case, internet users ought to be responsible in what they write as it impacts greatly on the population. Do you think the current laws cannot be able to tame wrong use of internet fully and there is need for more laws?

References

Mandell, S. P., Baron, S. L., Salvato, C. M., Armendariz, D. E., Arishita, M. K., Borger, J. P., & ... Zansberg, S. D. (2017). Recent developments in media, privacy, defamation, and advertising law. Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Law Journal, 52(2), 531-564.

Kendra Avery3 Response

Kendra Avery:

After going through the website campustrashmouths.com, I agree with you that it can be difficult to trace an anonymous writer and know his/her identity. However, I believe that the media platforms which includes the internet are essential tools which should be managed in an ethical way. Wrong use of internet means that it impacts negatively on the society. This calls on the need for enhanced laws in order to protect the general public against libel and defamation. Which laws do you think should be enhanced in order to tame wrong use of the internet?

References

Pember, D. R., & Calvert, C. (2015). Mass media law. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education