At the same time, he said that sensationalism is a key motivating factor in tabloid journalism.

"We are sensational. We don't make any bones about that," he said.

Coz also outlined recent changes at the Enquirer which are aimed at improving the credibility of the publication.

Compared to "television tabloids" such as Hard Copy or even other print tabloids, recent changes at the National Enquirer have made its coverage less offensive, Singer said.

"They are much more responsible," he said.

At the same time, Coz said that many TV networks run tabloid-like stories under the auspices of news.

As an example, he cited a recent ABC Prime Time Live advertisement promising Michael Jackson would "reveal all" to Diane Sawyer.

"The media has descended into tabloid realm," Coz said.

Some audience members said they liked the panel discussion.

Massy Tadjedin '99 said the Institute of Politics sponsored discussion led her to re-evaluate her criticism of tabloids.

"I was surprisingly in agreement with Steve Coz," she said