Final answer:
The phrase 'if it bleeds, it leads' refers to the practice in the media industry where negative and sensational news stories are given more prominence. This is because bad news tends to attract more viewers/readers than good news due to their dramatic and emotional impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'if it bleeds, it leads' refers to the practice in the media industry where negative and sensational news stories, particularly those involving violence or tragedy, are given more prominence and attention than positive news stories. This phrase highlights the notion that bad news tends to attract more viewers and readers than good news. For example, a news outlet may dedicate more airtime or front-page coverage to stories about crime, accidents, or disasters, while positive events receive less attention. This can be attributed to the human tendency to be more drawn to dramatic and sensational stories.
This practice of prioritizing negative news is driven by the media industry's desire to attract and retain audiences, as negative stories are often seen as more engaging, emotionally impactful, and likely to generate higher ratings or circulation. However, it is important to note that not all news outlets adhere strictly to this approach, and there are media organizations that prioritize balanced and informative reporting.