Eugene Volokh and Jane Bambauer examine the groundbreaking Robby Starbuck v. Google case, one of the first major defamation lawsuits arising from generative AI "hallucinations." They explore whether AI-generated falsehoods can constitute libel, why Section 230 offers no protection for AI-generated content, and how traditional defamation law applies when an AI invents damaging allegations about a real person. The conversation also covers the legal standards for actual malice, the role of discovery, Delaware's unusually permissive pleading rules, and whether these lawsuits could reshape the future of AI development—or expose AI companies to a wave of costly litigation. If AI can invent facts, who should bear the responsibility? This episode tackles one of the most important legal questions facing artificial intelligence today.
Recorded on July 30, 2026.
Podcasts
California lately: Winners and losers in the aftermath of the Paramount antitrust settlement. The future of California’s beleaguered high-speed rail project. Gov. Newsom angling for trout (and the presidency) in a Montana photo-op. Plus, an upcoming debate in what otherwise has been a sleepy governor’s race.
September 25, 2026 • 0 Min Listen
Event
The Hoover Institution in DC hosts Ideas Uncorked: China After Communism: Preparing For What Comes Next on Wednesday, October 14 from 5:00-6:30 pm ET. The event will feature Miles Maochun Yu.
September 13, 2024
Videos
Hoover Institution fellow Victor Davis Hanson says with five weeks to go before the midterm elections, the races remain uncertain. Hanson notes that current polling shows Democrats with an advantage in several key contests, but questions remain about polling accuracy, campaign spending, redistricting and the records of individual candidates.
September 22, 2026
