Yellow Journalism or Yellow Pressed Journalism are American devised terms that are associated with the field of journalism. These kind of Journalism is often noticed in news report that uses little or no research of legitimate or il legitimate kind instead of uses techniques such catchy headlines to attract readers. This kind of journalism goes with the very idea of writing reports for the purpose of increased sale. It can be said that, Yellow journalism decry any journalism that treats news in an unethical fashion.
Yellow Journalism; its impact today
The term yellow journalism is widely used in America whereas in United Kingdom it is referred to as Tabloid Journalism.
W Joseph Campbell describes this form of journalism as the ones which has only a sale purpose in mind. It is evident through the bold layouts, coloured graphics and unlimited sources.
One of the main aspects of yellow journalism that he describes is that it sensationalized crime reports in order to increase sale.
Five main characteristics
- Bold layout headlines – even including of minor news
- Extravaggent usage of pictures
- Faked interviews and misleading informations
- Inclusion of comic strips on Sunday
- Sympathy of underdog
In today’s date, yellow journalism is seen in large number compared to ethical style of writing news report. In today’s date, media stresses on the fact that “ if it bleeds, it leads”. This takes away the true essence of journalism and report writing. Although the roots of journalism goes way back to Publishing giants like Pulitzer and Hearst but the idea of sensationalizing of news remains alive even today.
Talking about social media, this medium acts a driving force that gives a push to making a content viral – this is especially true in case of political news or some celebrity gossips. The social media in this case may act as a bone or a boon. The urgent need for public appeal or for the truth to be heard by all, social media plays a very vital role but in case of spreading mis information it is no less. Within seconds and with a click of a button a news is spread from one corner of the world to another.
Thus, it is always advisable to know your sources well and not spread false and fabricated news. Since Internet can be used as a favour do not mis use it for your own advantage.
