The `tabloid effect' in the O.J. Simpson case

Abstract

• This article considers the `tabloid effect' of the O.J. Simpson case in terms of the production of crime knowledge. Summarizing important literature on crime and the media, it suggests that unusual circumstances must occur for news media to offer information in conflict with law enforcement agencies (as in the Rodney King incident, where an independent videotape existed). The Simpson case is an excellent example of how the debate on criticism of the blurring of the distinction between `mainstream' and `tabloid' media helps to illustrate the economic and cultural mechanisms that produce crime knowledge. This is done through careful discussion of two crucial `mainstream' assessments of the notorious `tabloid' weekly the National Enquirer. •