In a libel case brought by a professor against a dean who truthfully stated in response to an inquiry that the professor had abused patients (a claim later proven false), will the professor prevail if the dean can show that the professor invited the inquiry and authorized publication?

In a libel case brought by a professor against a dean who truthfully stated in response to an inquiry that the professor had abused patients (a claim later proven false), will the professor prevail if the dean can show that the professor invited the inquiry and authorized publication?

• A. Yes, because truth is a defense
• B. No, because the dean’s statements were malicious
• C. Yes, because the professor invited the inquiry and publication
• D. No, because the statements damaged the professor’s reputation regardless of invitation

Answer: (C)