Are statements of opinion considered defamatory?

In Oklahoma, statements of opinion are not typically considered defamatory. This is because opinions are relative and subjective, can be accepted or rejected by the listener, and are usually based on personal beliefs. Defamation, on the other hand, requires a false statement of fact that damages the reputation of an individual or organization. However, some cases have been brought to court in Oklahoma in which statements of opinion have been found to be defamatory. This is because the statement of opinion was closely associated with a false and damaging statement of fact. For example, if someone stated in public opinion that a person was untrustworthy, even if the statement was based on an opinion, if it could be proven that the statement was false and damaged the person’s reputation, then it could be classified as defamatory. For a statement of opinion to be considered defamatory in Oklahoma, it must constitute an exceptional case in which the opinion is associated with an expressed or implied false statement of fact. A court may look at the context of the statement to determine if the opinion was reasonably interpreted by the listener as a statement of fact. Ultimately, if an opinion is found to be false and damaging, it could be classified as defamatory.

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Are statements of opinion considered defamatory?

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