20th Annual Student Research Conference
Language & Literature
Blogs and the First Amendment
Sara A. James
Dr. Karon Speckman, Faculty Mentor
Technology is enabling more and more people to actively use the First Amendment to make their voices heard through Web logs. However, Web log-related firings have been occurring with companies large and small because of this use of freedom of speech. This research examines main aspects of landmark legal cases and upcoming cases to discuss why the First Amendment does not protect bloggers with the freedom to make any comments about their job. The research calls for businesses to create a Web log guideline within their codes of conduct or for the Supreme Court to make a ruling on Web logs and how it perceive Web logs within the realms of libel, defamation, opinion/editorial content, satire, and publication. The creation of a company code not only protects the company from unnecessary legal battles but it will also explain to the employees exactly what is and is not allowed. This can ensure that both sides know what to expect with their First Amendment rights and Web logs
Keywords: Web log, blogs, First Amendment, Media Law, libel, defamation, satire, editorial
Topic(s):Communication
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 56-5
Location: OP 2113
Time: 3:45 pm