13.11.2023 Media industry
Yellow Press. What is Yellow Journalism?
Krzysztof Fiedorek
The terms "yellow press" and "yellow journalism" are often used pejoratively to describe journalistic practices focused on sensationalism, gossip, and emotions rather than objective facts. Let’s explore their origins, distinctive features, and impact on society.
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illustration: bing.com/createThe term "yellow press" was first used in the United States in 1896 to describe the competition between two New York newspapers: Joseph Pulitzer`s New York World and William Randolph Hearst`s New York Journal. Both newspapers competed for the highest circulation by using increasingly sensational and scandalous methods. The name "yellow press" originated from the yellow comic strip associated with the character The Yellow Kid, which appeared in both publications.
One of the most notable examples of yellow journalism from that time was the story of the sinking of the Spanish cruiser "Maine" in 1898. Hearst and Pulitzer falsely accused Spain of sinking the ship, which contributed to the outbreak of the Spanish-American War.
Distinctive Features of Yellow Press
Also known as "penny press," yellow journalism is characterized by the following features:
- Focus on Sensation: Yellow press focuses on shocking, surprising, or unexpected events, often using headlines and illustrations designed to grab readers` attention.
- Superficiality: Yellow press often addresses complex topics in a superficial and simplified way, disregarding objectivity and accuracy.
- Emotions: Yellow press aims to evoke strong emotions in readers, such as fear, anger, or admiration.
Several factors contribute to the popularity of yellow press, including human curiosity that drives us to read about shocking and unexpected events, and the availability of information that makes it easier to find stories of interest.
Yellow press is popular in many countries. Examples include:
- In the United States: "The New York Post," "National Enquirer"
- In the United Kingdom: "The Sun," "Daily Mail"
- In Germany: "Bild," "RTL Aktuell."
Impact of Yellow Press on Society
Yellow press can have both positive and negative impacts on society. On one hand, it can raise public awareness on important issues. On the other, it can spread misinformation and contribute to societal polarization.
Positive effects of yellow press include:
- Raising Social Awareness: Yellow press can help raise awareness on important topics, such as social issues, politics, and culture.
- Promoting Democracy: Yellow press can support democracy by monitoring power and informing the public about significant events.
Negative effects of yellow press include:
- Spreading Misinformation: Yellow press can spread misinformation by disseminating false or unverified information.
- Polarizing Society: Yellow press can polarize society by promoting extremism and antagonism between different social groups.
Yellow journalism can be found in various media, such as print, television, radio, and online. Examples of yellow journalism practices include:
- Clickbait Headlines designed to attract readers` attention, even if they don`t match the article’s content.
- Spreading Gossip and Sensationalism without factual support.
- Using Unethical Journalism Practices, such as spying or blackmail.
Controversies and Popularity
In addition to newspapers, yellow journalism is also popular in other media, such as television, radio, and the internet. News programs and talk shows often focus on scandals and sensational topics. On the internet, news portals frequently publish articles on yellow press themes.
Yellow press and yellow journalism are terms that provoke much controversy. On one hand, they can be seen as a form of freedom of speech, allowing important topics to be discussed in a way that attracts readers’ attention. On the other hand, yellow press is criticized for spreading misinformation and polarizing society.
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