[Kevin]

The confusing thing is that most folks -- those who aren't journalists or don't write things for public consumption are largely unaware of what libel is. They may have studied it in their journalism class in high school, but that's probably the extent of their knowledge.

It's funny, and maybe telling, that all of the replies to this thread thus far have been lawyers essentially saying 'duh.'

Perhaps what we have here is not an issue of new law, but rather a lack of public education and preparedness for being suddenly able to communicate in such a public manner and without an editor trying to make sure your publication doesn't get sued.