Libel involves which form of defamation?

Libel specifically refers to defamation that occurs through written or printed statements. This includes various forms of documented communication, such as articles, books, or social media posts, where false information is presented as fact, potentially harming an individual's reputation. The key aspect that distinguishes libel from other forms of defamation is its reliance on a permanent medium, which can be referenced or proven in a court of law.

In contrast, spoken words or gestures fall under slander, which is a different type of defamation that involves transient communication. Implied suggestions and private conversations also do not constitute libel, as they either lack the necessary permanence of written statements or do not directly involve the act of public communication critical to defamation cases. Understanding this distinction is vital for anyone studying healthcare law and ethics, as implications of defamation can have serious consequences for professionals in the medical field.