The Evolution and Impact of Fake News
Following the 2016 United States presidential elections, 'fake news' emerged as a powerful phenomenon, particularly dominating social media platforms.However, its roots trace back much further, reflecting a long-standing tradition of sensational and exploitative journalism practices known as yellow journalism, which emerged in the late 19th century. Claire Fallon of the Huffington Post notes that before "fake news" became the catchphrase it is today, English speakers referred to it as "false news." This terminology shift signals not only a change in language but also in the media's role and responsibilities.
This essay aims to explore the historical evolution of fake news, its relationship with partisan journalism, and its implications in the modern digital era, arguing that the phenomenon is deeply embedded in the cultural and technological transformations of the media landscape.
Contents
The Rise of Partisan Journalism
In the burgeoning years of the United States, newspapers were intrinsically linked to the political parties they supported. Dr. Jeffery Rutenbeck, Dean of the School of Communication at American University, highlights that this partisan press was a crucial part of America's nascent party system. Newspapers were not just observers but active participants, disseminating party agendas and influencing public opinion. As Rutenbeck notes, even by 1850, a mere 5 percent of American newspapers claimed neutrality. This era of journalism was marked by a lack of interest in public welfare, focusing instead on persuasion rather than information dissemination, as Dr. Kristen Heflin points out.
The partisan press received support from government officials through postage and printing contracts, which ensured their survival and influence. However, this relationship came under scrutiny, and there was a growing call for a commercialized press that served the informational needs of citizens rather than political interests. This commercial shift gave rise to the penny press, which prioritized sensational stories to attract a broader readership. Reporters, paid by the space they filled, often resorted to exaggeration or fabrication, further blurring the lines between fact and fiction.
Technological Transformations and Neutrality
The introduction of the telegraph in the 1840s marked a pivotal moment in news dissemination. Richard Kielbowicz describes this as the most significant divide in news gathering, revolutionizing the mode of communication. The telegraph allowed for the rapid transmission of information, leading to the development of wire services that prioritized objective reporting. According to communication theorist James W. Carey, this new mode of communication broke the tradition of partisan journalism, as wire services needed to cater to newspapers of all political stripes.
However, as Dr. Bolette Blaagaard suggests, the telegraph's influence was double-edged. While it facilitated neutrality in news reporting, it also homogenized news flow, often sidelining minority voices. This period saw the rise of yellow journalism, characterized by sensationalism and a focus on spectacle. Dr. Craig Carey notes that media practices during this era, such as during the Spanish-American War, played a significant role in shaping public perception and imperial narratives. It wasn't until the early 20th century that the American Society of Newspapers adopted an ethical code of conduct to counteract these practices.
The Digital Age and the Return of Fake News
The landmark 1945 United States Supreme Court ruling on the Associated Press case emphasized the importance of diverse and antagonistic information sources for public welfare. This ruling laid the groundwork for the modern media landscape, where the internet has revolutionized information distribution. Dr. John Pavlik describes this transformation from a one-way communication model to a dialogic one, where the public can interact with media outlets.
In the digital age, fake news has resurfaced with renewed vigor, amplified by social media and the internet's vast reach. This environment allows misinformation to spread rapidly, often unchecked, echoing the sensational practices of yellow journalism. The challenge now lies in navigating this complex landscape, ensuring that information remains accurate and reliable while fostering an informed public discourse.
The evolution of fake news is intricately linked to the historical practices of journalism, technological advancements, and the shifting dynamics of media consumption. From its origins in partisan presses to the sensationalism of yellow journalism and the modern challenges posed by digital communication, fake news reflects broader societal and cultural trends. As we navigate this complex media landscape, it is crucial to uphold journalistic integrity and foster a media environment that prioritizes accuracy, diversity, and public welfare. Understanding the historical context of fake news provides valuable insights into its current manifestations and the ongoing quest for truth in journalism.
The Evolution and Impact of Fake News. (2019, Jun 10). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/yellow-journalism-internet-age/
