sensationalism in journalism

Discusses and dismantles ten widely-believed stories by or about the news media and argues that such myths deflect blame from policymakers, feed stereotypes, and inflate the power of the news media.

"The waning years of the nineteenth century saw the emergence of a new kind of journalism in the United States, one that not only challenged government and corporate power, but also turned to sordid crimes and scandals for much of its material. Sensational, shocking, and lurid, this new style of reporting came to be known as yellow journalism. The trend influenced newspapers across the country, and its role in building public support for the Spanish-American War has become the stuff of legend. This book traces the development of yellow journalism and demonstrates its impact"--Provided by publisher.

Provides a brief description of the impact that yellow journalism of the late nineteenth century had on American society.

Chronicles the history of sensationalism in the American press and discusses how journalist tactics have changed in recent years.

Traces the history of tabloid journalism in America, profiling some of the publishing owners and executives who originated and perpetuated the multibillion-dollar industry.

Discusses how the media and human psychology have combined to create fear and paranoia in people, and presents the facts about asbestos, drive-by shootings, pesticides, mad cow disease, and other supposed dangers.

World history in tabloid format.

Questions whether the mass media, especially television, presents an accurate representation of the news or whether it is more concerned with the sensational story.