
The 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.
COMMERCIAL BREAK
New articles in section Media industry
Influencers and social video rule information. Digital News Report 2025
Krzysztof Fiedorek
Seconds of vertical clips set the future of news. TikTok, YouTube and an army of influencers pull viewers away from TV sets and newspaper pages. Whoever masters this new pulse seizes not only attention but also control of the story.
Cyberviolence and hate disguised as a joke. The RAYUELA report on youth
Krzysztof Fiedorek
The study conducted in five countries reveals a harsh truth. Online violence is not evenly distributed. It is a digital map of prejudice that hurts the most those who stand out the most. "It’s just a joke." That’s how violence often begins. Young people go through it in silence.
Trust in social media. Youtube beats TikTok and X
Krzysztof Fiedorek
Do we really trust social media? A new study reveals major differences in how top platforms are rated. Trust goes where there's authenticity, not just algorithms. The role of people is growing while brand influence is fading.
See articles on a similar topic:
Review of media from around the world. See what they are buzzing about [LINK]
AUTOPROMOCJA Reporterzy.info
What is the media buzzing about? A review of the headlines of the most important newspapers and websites. Events of the day, country, world, media market, economy, sport, foreign media, and even gossip and curiosities. In real time and 24 hours a day. We invite you!
Artificial intelligence in newsrooms. Three realities of the AI era in media
Krzysztof Fiedorek
According to a report by the European Broadcasting Union, many newsrooms already use AI but still do not fully trust it. Audiences do not want "robotic" news, and the technologies themselves though fast can be costly, unreliable, and surprisingly human in their mistakes.
The Deadliest Year for Journalism. 124 Fatalities in 2024
Krzysztof Fiedorek
The year 2024 was the deadliest for media professionals since the Committee to Protect Journalists began tracking these statistics. The tragic figures, published in CPJs latest special report, reached record highs in most monitored categories.
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Skills. The Future of the Job Market is Here
KFi
The world faces the challenge of digital transformation, and technological skills have become a gateway to career success. How do Europeans evaluate their abilities, and which industries are leading the way? A recent report by Pracuj.pl reveals which skills open doors to better careers and why AI is the future of work.