9.08.2011
9.07.2011
Advertising Reflection #1: Impact on Society
As a powerful tool to drive sales, in a free market system advertising has helped blow consumerism culture up into today’s almost ridiculous proportions. While it isn’t the primary cause, I think it certainly is a contributing factor.
Advertisers effectively brainwash children whose innocent minds simply don’t stand a chance against the psychoanalysts, focus groups, bright color palettes and morning TV spots. Fashion houses prey on my insecurities and desires to be with the ‘in’ crowd to peddle more clothes I don’t need.
Of course, on the other end of the spectrum we have advertisements that promote healthy lifestyles, discouraging drink driving, encouraging exercise etc. This goes to show advertisements are mere tools, and their goodness and their impact on society lies in the way they are used.
In today’s society however, the vast majority of ads are used to perpetuate consumerism and a materialistic culture. I think this point at a more fundamental problem with the free market system, or how society operates, in which people need to decide for themselves what it is they truly want.
In my imagination is a world where billboards shout the benefits of compassion, where TV spots remind us that happiness is not about having what we want, but wanting what we have, and pamphlets sell happiness for exactly $0.00. This world sounds ridiculous, but at least you don’t have to buy a new sweater every fall, and your kids won’t be clamoring for Playstation Four.
Advertisers effectively brainwash children whose innocent minds simply don’t stand a chance against the psychoanalysts, focus groups, bright color palettes and morning TV spots. Fashion houses prey on my insecurities and desires to be with the ‘in’ crowd to peddle more clothes I don’t need.
Of course, on the other end of the spectrum we have advertisements that promote healthy lifestyles, discouraging drink driving, encouraging exercise etc. This goes to show advertisements are mere tools, and their goodness and their impact on society lies in the way they are used.
In today’s society however, the vast majority of ads are used to perpetuate consumerism and a materialistic culture. I think this point at a more fundamental problem with the free market system, or how society operates, in which people need to decide for themselves what it is they truly want.
In my imagination is a world where billboards shout the benefits of compassion, where TV spots remind us that happiness is not about having what we want, but wanting what we have, and pamphlets sell happiness for exactly $0.00. This world sounds ridiculous, but at least you don’t have to buy a new sweater every fall, and your kids won’t be clamoring for Playstation Four.
8.02.2011
7.05.2011
Old Friend
She looked a little tired, but I guess all of us do.
I guess growing up hit her, the way it hit all of us too.
6.16.2011
To the Activists
I understand how important each one of your causes is. But just to let you know, the kids are still hungry in Africa.
5.30.2011
The Revolution Has Died
I've never been able to understand everything he's produced, but from the little that I do, I know we've lost a great artist in Gil Scott-Heron.
5.20.2011
5.04.2011
Absolutely Amazing
Which ping pong ball roller coaster ride through historical landmarks made of toothpicks would you like to go on today?
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