How does the author's use of the term defamation to refer to a restricted category of speech affect the meaning of the passage?

Question

Responses

It lends legal credibility to the passage.
It lends legal credibility to the passage. EndFragment

It intimidates uneducated readers.
It intimidates uneducated readers. EndFragment

It indicates that the author favors restricted speech.
It indicates that the author favors restricted speech. EndFragment

It shows the author's bias toward unrestricted speech.

Answer 1

The most accurate response to the author's use of the term "defamation" in the context provided would be:

It lends legal credibility to the passage.

By referring to "defamation," the author is utilizing a legal term that carries specific implications regarding speech. This suggests that the author is framing the discussion of speech in a legal context, which can add authority and specificity to the argument.

The other options do not align as well with the implications of the term "defamation." It does not inherently indicate intimidation or bias toward free speech—rather, it frames the discussion in terms of legal boundaries and consequences related to speech.