Libel, Freedom of the Press, and the New Yorker

Abstract

An American icon and important press institution, the New Yorker magazine has actively protected its freedoms of expression against the chilling effect of libel law since its inception in 1925. This history examines how the magazine and the law firm Greenbaum, Wolff & Ernst created editorial and legal procedures and strategies to combat libel complaints in the New Yorker's first forty years of existence. During these years, libel threats influenced the New Yorker's editorial decision-making and processes, content, and use of human and financial resources. Although the history of American libel law is well documented, the social effects of libel law on particular publications are not. This study helps to fill the gap.