Zeran v. America Online E-Resource

Abstract

The Fourth Circuit's 1997 ruling in Zeran v. America Online played a critical role in Section 230 jurisprudence and, by extension, the Internet's development. To better understand this seminal case, we compiled a variety of resources about the case, including (1) two dozen essays reflecting upon the decision's 20th anniversary, and (2) key opinions and filings from the litigation, some of which have never before been available in electronic format. This compilation should interest anyone researching the history of Internet Law or thinking about the implications of online speech policies and the ongoing policy debates about Section 230.

Keywords: zeran, america online, AOL, defamation, negligence, CDA, communications decency act, 47 USC230, section 230, internet

JEL Classification: k2, k42,