Select advertisements for every days products from TV or other sources. What product is being advertised? What types of promises or images are connected to the product? Do you think the product delivers on the claims that are being made? How you connect the images associated with these products to a broader view on what it means to live in modern industrial society?
In today’s modern industrial society, advertising plays a significant role in promoting products and shaping consumer behavior. Advertisements are pervasive, found in various forms such as television, radio, social media, and print media. They are designed to capture the attention of consumers and persuade them to purchase a particular product or service. To understand the impact of advertising on society, it is essential to examine the product being advertised and the types of promises or images associated with it.
One advertisement that commonly comes to mind is the Coca-Cola commercial aired during Super Bowl, one of the most-watched events in the United States. This advertisement promotes the product, Coca-Cola, a popular carbonated soft drink. The commercial usually features individuals enjoying the beverage in harmonious, picturesque settings. The promise associated with Coca-Cola is that drinking their product brings people happiness, togetherness, and a sense of refreshment.
The images used in these advertisements typically depict smiling individuals, often surrounded by friends and family, engaging in various outdoor activities. The vibrant colors and lively music contribute to creating a happy and joyful atmosphere. Through the use of these images, Coca-Cola aims to create a connection between their product and positive emotions, suggesting that drinking Coca-Cola will enhance a person’s overall well-being.
However, when evaluating whether the product delivers on these promises, one must approach the claims critically. While Coca-Cola may provide a momentary sense of refreshment and pleasure, it is essential to recognize that the long-term effects of consuming sugary beverages can have detrimental impacts on one’s health, such as obesity and dental problems. Therefore, it is arguable whether the advertised promises align with the actual outcomes of consuming the product.
When considering the broader view on what it means to live in modern industrial society, the images associated with products like Coca-Cola reflect certain societal values and aspirations. The advertisements convey a message that consuming these products can lead to happiness, friendship, and an idealized lifestyle. By presenting these images, advertisers tap into a desire for connection, enjoyment, and fulfillment.
Moreover, the focus on consumption in these advertisements is representative of our consumer-driven society. They depict a culture where material possessions and instant gratification are highly valued. Advertisers leverage these desires to create a sense of urgency and demand for their products, driving economic growth and fueling consumerism.
Additionally, these advertisements reinforce the notion of individualism and personal autonomy. They often portray individuals as independent decision-makers, suggesting that the consumption of specific products will allow them to express their unique identities and achieve personal satisfaction. This emphasis on individual choice aligns with the ethos of modern industrial society, where freedom of choice and self-expression are highly prized.
In conclusion, advertisements for everyday products wield considerable influence in modern industrial society, shaping consumer behavior and reflecting societal values and aspirations. The example of Coca-Cola illustrates how images and promises are connected to a product. While the advertisements promote happiness and togetherness, it is crucial to critically evaluate whether the product delivers on these claims. The images associated with these products reinforce the broader view of living in a consumer-driven society, where individualism and personal autonomy are highly valued. Overall, advertisements contribute to the complex relationship between consumers, products, and the society in which they exist.