The Rise of Sensationalism.

Written by: Priyanshi Bezawada

Edited by: Githika Jagadeesan and Claire Chen

Sensationalism is a weapon, used by journalists and influencers. It is the tactic of gaining attention through the distortion of truth or the spread of misinformation. It first began as an eye-catching tactic used by the media in the early 1800s and has evolved into modern-day yellow journalism and social media. Today, the journalistic approach thrives on cheap gimmicks, like cliché filters or completely unrealistic standards. Newspapers focus on evoking emotion rather than conveying facts, using the method as a means to twist information to influence belief and bypass credibility. On the other hand, social media emphasizes contradictory beliefs, idolizing perfect social images and celebrities while creating a fear of judgement and a spite for mistakes. Consequently, with media’s substantial impact on culture and mentality, the younger generation has begun to fall prey to self-doubt and insecurity while developing a cynical crowd mentality. With the rising weight, society can only be pressured to conform to these standards, even through unhealthy and hurtful methods. As more reporters pursue clout, it is rare to see unfiltered truths laid out for us.

Blurring the lines between reality and entertainment has caused the media to prioritize popularity over substance. This shift has only made the future of journalism and social image more ambiguous and lacking in insight, accounting for a future discourse in public opinion and a reformation in youth psychology.

"If you want to reach a large audience, appeal to idiots." (Arthur Schopenhauer) The renowned author of the 19th century viewed the evolutionary tactic as a hindrance to true journalism and reliable information. Despite how it may seem, wording and exaggeration play a key role in perception. Sensationalism, which continues as a way to capture public attention, has already found its way into daily speech and our own portrayal of the truth. With so much reliance on social media and similar platforms, this may be the very fuel for misunderstandings in the future.