Based on empirical research involving interviews with defamation lawyers, as well as journalists, editors, and producers, this book provides a comparative examination of defamation liability standards and their impact on the media's ability to report on matters of public examination. The interviews span a twelve-year time frame during which there were significant developments in the affected countries (Australia, the United States and Great Britain) including extensions of qualified privilege in the Reynolds (Great Britain) and Lange (Australia) decisions. "Innovative and important." -- Law & Politics Book Review "The findings provide rare insights. Right to Speak Ill also has substantial scholarly merit and provides ample resources for readers who wish to pursue any of its topics." -- Communications Lawyer.