Final answer:
The National Enquirer is popular due to its sensational content rooted in yellow journalism, its appeal to readers seeking entertainment, and its wide-ranging coverage that includes diverse social perspectives. It attracts a broad demographic, enhancing its advertising revenue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The National Enquirer sells for many reasons that are rooted in historical precedent and societal trends. Drawing from practices such as yellow journalism established by Joseph Pulitzer, tabloids like the National Enquirer offer sensational and scandalous stories that have proven to be popular with the general public. This type of journalism prioritizes entertainment value and often provides a respite from the more serious or mundane aspects of daily life.
In her book, anthropologist Bird highlights that tabloids feed into the larger cultural narratives and can serve as an outlet for readers who feel alienated from mainstream media. They offer an array of content that sometimes blurs the line between factual reporting and entertainment, which can be attractive to those looking for an escape or alternative viewpoints.
Moreover, the business model used by tabloids like the National Enquirer has traditionally relied on advertising revenue, which is greatly enhanced by their large circulation and appeal to a broad demographic. The tabloid's appeal is also bolstered by its coverage of topics that are of interest to various social groups, including businessmen, workers, and the middle class, reflecting a diversity of perspectives on contemporary issues and social trends.