This job explains what defamation means.

Select the best answer to the following question. What differs in a defamation suit when the plaintiff is a public figure, as opposed to when the plaintiff is not a public figure?

a.            Punitive damages are available.

b.            The plaintiff need not prove actual injury to the reputation.

c.            The plaintiff can recover even when the statement is a mere opinion.

d.            The plaintiff must prove that the statement was made with malice.

e.            The plaintiff must prove that the statement was made in writing.