Sensationalism in the media is the process of hyping up news
stories in order to sell more papers or have more viewers. This is known as market-driven journalism.
Wikipedia states, that some tactics of sensationalism include: appealing to
emotions, being controversial, omitting facts, and acting to obtain attention. When
watching the news it seems the most common tactic is threatening someone’s
life. This video is a great example of news reporters manipulating the people’s
fears and emotions.
There are
many effects of sensationalism. Buzzle.com states that these are: a lack of
interest to listen to the media, degradation of values, the distinction between
accurate and inaccurate news has disappeared, celebrities’ private lives are no
longer private, and worst of all sensationalism is destroying the awareness
level of the viewers.
No wonder the people care less and
less about the news. When the media is projecting false or exaggerated
information, why should anyone watch it? It is almost better to not watch the
falsified information than be terrified of the world.
With this
constant threat of life coming to an end, of course people aren’t paying
attention. In order to prevent sensationalism effects, we as viewers need to
take the power away from the media. When watching the news, do not just accept;
think critically and question what you are seeing. When reading the news online,
do not just use one source; obtain information from a number of sites. It is surprising
the number of deaths in accidents can miraculously change from story to story. Even
if the media does not change their tactics, the way we interpret the news can.
When the media lies to the masses, the masses must rise and defend themselves.
Sensationalism
in the media is a huge problem. It is bringing apathy and ignorance to the
people. It causes hysteria and a lack of awareness. It is one of the few
problems in our country we can easily fix. It is our obligation to solve the
problem of sensationalism.
I couldn't agree with you more. The media has definitely taken a turn for the worse. I used to actively watch the new and try to keep up on what was going on in the world. I would flip the channels to different news stations just trying to get a better grasp on what was happening. Eventually it got to the point where the stations were telling the same story but they each threw their own twist on it. The twists and turns the news media put on the truth turned me away. I completely agree with you that it is our responsibility to think critically and find out the truth. Media sensationalism is is one of the biggest problems we have.
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