Ethics of Advertising
In general, the ethics of advertising has been debated since its creation.
- Many consider to be deceptive and often contain misleading information. While there are truth in advertising laws and regulations, some criticize the fact that there are ways around this.
- The Federal Trade Commission enforces the truth in advertising laws amongst all types of media.
- “When consumers see or hear an advertisement, whether it’s on the Internet, radio or television, or anywhere else, federal law says that ad must be truthful, not misleading, and, when appropriate, backed by scientific evidence” (FTC, n.d., para.1).
However even if the advertising is truthful, is it still manipulative?
The point of advertising is to encourage consumers to make the purchase; often the advertisements target our emotions.
- The question is if there a way for advertisers to use emotions and at the same time remain ethical.
- Along the same lines, advertising also focuses on the issues a consumer will face if he or she does not have the company’s product.
- This plays on the consumer fears and insecurities and may encourage the customer to purchase items that he or she does not need.
- Where is the line between advertising and encouraging sales and ethics?