Which phrase best describes Chesney's idea of News as Entertainment?

• A. A more objective, non-sensationalist approach
• B. A purely educational role for journalism
• C. Sensationalism and hyper-commercialism in the news agenda
• D. A neutral, fact-based approach

Answer: (C)

News as entertainment is about how the drive to attract audiences and sell advertising shapes what gets reported and how it’s presented. The idea is that outlets package news with entertainment values—drama, spectacle, sensational headlines, and vivid visuals—to capture attention in a crowded media landscape. This leads to a news agenda that leans toward sensationalism and hyper-commercial tactics, prioritizing viewer interest and profits over purely objective or educational reporting. That’s why the description focusing on sensationalism and hyper-commercialism best fits Chesney’s view. In contrast, descriptions that emphasize neutrality, purely educational aims, or non-sensational, fact-based reporting miss how market forces and entertainment logic actually steer contemporary news.