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Discussion Topics
- Ethics in Advertising
- Advertising and Children
- Role of Celebrities in Advertising
Follow-up questions
1. Ethics in Advertising
Q.1. What are your views on the ethics of advertising?
Ans. Advertising plays an important role in our society as it helps inform consumers about various products and services in the market. However, it must be done ethically. Ethical advertising means being truthful, non-deceptive and fair to the people. It should not mislead consumers or exploit their vulnerabilities. For instance, I came across an advertisement for a health product that claims to increase weight by 15 kilograms within a week and it felt like the brand is making false claims to its consumers to boost their sales. Weight gain, like weight loss, is a complex process that typically requires time, effort, and often professional guidance to achieve safely and effectively. Claiming such a significant increase in weight within a short period, like 15 kilograms in a week, is not only unrealistic but also potentially harmful. In my view, promoting such extreme and unrealistic claims can be considered misleading and exploitative of consumers’ desires for quick fixes or solutions. Responsible advertisers should prioritize honesty, transparency, and the well-being of their consumers, avoiding exaggerated claims that could harm individuals’ health or well-being.
Q.2. Are there any types of advertisements that you believe should be banned?
Ans. Yes, I feel that there are certain advertisements that should be banned due to ethical reasons. For example, advertisements that promote harmful products like cigarettes or alcohol should be restricted, especially those that target young audiences. These products have proven health risks, and advertising them can glamorize their usage and encourage harmful behaviours. Similarly, I once encountered an ad promoting fairer skin in women, promising instant results from product use, which should also be banned. Such ads create unrealistic expectations and can damage the self-esteem of individuals, especially young girls and women.
2. Advertising and Children
Q.1. How does advertising impact children?
Ans. Advertising significantly shapes a child’s world. For instance, when a child sees their favourite superhero using a particular brand of shoes, they might want to buy those shoes. Moreover, ads can also influence a child’s perception of societal norms. For example, if advertisements predominantly show people being happy when they buy new things, children might start to believe that material possessions are the key to happiness. Additionally, advertising can affect children’s dietary habits and preferences. Ads for sugary snacks, fast food, and sugary beverages often target children, influencing their food choices and potentially contributing to unhealthy eating habits and obesity.
Q.2. Should there be restrictions on the types of products that can be advertised to children?
Ans. Definitely, children are a vulnerable audience because they are still in the stage of understanding the world around them. For example, if an ad shows children having a blast while playing with a specific toy, kids might believe they need that toy to have fun. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment. Similarly, ads for unhealthy food can create a false impression that these foods are good to consume regularly. This can contribute to the development of poor dietary habits and increase the risk of childhood obesity and related health issues.
3. Role of Celebrities in Advertising
Q.1. What is the role of celebrities in advertising?
Ans. Celebrities wield significant influence in advertising due to their perceived status, credibility, and wide-reaching appeal. When a celebrity endorses a product, fans often view it as a personal recommendation from someone they admire, leading to increased interest and trust in the product. For instance, when a famous athlete promotes a sports drink, fans may believe that using the same drink is a key factor in their idol’s success and performance. This association can drive them to purchase the product in hopes of achieving similar results in their own athletic pursuits. Similarly, celebrities can enhance the credibility of a product, particularly in areas such as beauty and skincare. If a renowned celebrity with flawless skin endorses a skincare brand, consumers are more likely to perceive the product as effective and trustworthy. The celebrity’s association with the brand lends it an air of legitimacy and authority, influencing their perceptions and purchasing decisions.
Q.2. Do you think their endorsements influence consumers’ purchasing decisions?
Ans. Absolutely, celebrity endorsements can significantly influence consumers’ purchasing decisions. When an admired celebrity endorses a product, it can create a sense of trust and aspiration. It’s like, “If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for me.” For instance, if a renowned chef endorses a particular brand of cookware, people who enjoy cooking might be more inclined to buy that brand. Similarly, if a fitness celebrity endorses a specific workout gear, their followers might be motivated to purchase it, thinking it could help them achieve their fitness goals.
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