SENSATIONALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Sensationalism is a concept that refers to the practice of emphasizing shocking or captivating stories or events in journalism, media, or public discourse in order to attract attention, increase viewership, or generate excitement. It involves presenting information or stories in an exaggerated or melodramatic manner, with the intent to evoke strong emotional reactions from the audience. Sensationalism often prioritizes sensational or scandalous details over the accuracy or objectivity of the information being presented.
This approach tends to amplify the sensational aspects of a story, playing on the audience's emotions and curiosity rather than aiming for a more rational or balanced understanding of the subject matter. Sensationalism is known for employing provocative headlines, vivid imagery, and excessive dramatization, all aimed at captivating the reader or viewer's attention. It often focuses on topics that are controversial, salacious, or bizarre, as these tend to generate more interest and engagement.
While sensationalism can create a buzz and boost viewership or readership, it is often criticized for its excessive focus on trivial or morally dubious subjects, and for potentially distorting public perception or understanding of current events. Critics argue that sensationalism prioritizes entertainment value and profit over informing the public accurately, promoting superficial or skewed narratives rather than fostering informed and enlightened discourse. Nonetheless, sensationalism continues to be a prominent feature in various forms of media and communication, and navigating through it requires a healthy dose of media literacy and critical thinking skills.
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The doctrine that our ideas originate solely in sensation, and consist of sensations transformed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of SENSATIONALISM
The word "sensationalism" comes from the root word "sensation", which in turn comes from the Latin word "sensatio" meaning "perception" or "feeling". The suffix "-ism" is added to indicate a theory, system, or practice. Therefore, "sensationalism" refers to the theory or practice of presenting news, events, or stories in a way that arouses intense interest, excitement, or emotion in order to gain attention or increase readership/viewership.
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