As stated by Justice Brennan, the standard in defamation cases "prohibits a public official from recovering damages for a defamatory falsehood relating to his official conduct unless he proves that the statement was made with ___________, that is, with knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard of whether it was false or not."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement of Justice Brennan is referring to the actual malice standard, which requires the plaintiff to prove that the statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or with reckless disregard for whether it was true or false. Therefore, option C, "actual malice," is the best choice. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because ill will, hatred, and discontent are not required to establish actual malice.

As Stated by Justice Brennan, the Standard in Defamation Cases