The Role of the Media: The First Amendment and Beyond

Freedom of the press is a paramount right guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. This freedom is recognized as necessary for the free exchange of ideas in a democracy. Yet, the media is sometimes seen as going beyond the boundaries of its mission and impinging on rights guaranteed to individuals. Freedom of the press does not entirely insulate the media from suits based on defamation and invasion of privacy. This symposium will explore the role of the media through the lens of politics, law, and history. The discussion will include the role of the media generally, the protection of the media in fulfilling its role, and the way courts treat the media’s intrusiveness into private lives.