Status competition within the media world also incentivizes reporters to hunt for the most distinctive evaluations—i.e., the “hottest takes.” Scoops, exclusives, and early discoveries are necessary to stand out. The sociologist of art Jean Duvignaud writes, “No editor, no gallery director dare admit today to having ‘let slip’ a talented painter or poet, as much for reasons of the prestige which comes with the venture of ‘launching’ as for the immense material benefits which accompany success.”
