Discussion Question No. 1:

How does advertising shape our consumer patterns? Give specific examples of your own experience.

Even though it may seem hard to admit, advertising does indeed impact our consumer patterns in many ways. For example, have you ever bought an item because it is the latest model? Have you ever purchased an item because a famous celebrity has promoted it? Have you ever become suddenly hungry at midnight while watching a fast food commercial? These are merely examples of how advertising has shaped our lives, culture and personal needs. In my case, I had recently purchased an Iphone 3gs when the 4g was launched to the market and I suddenly had the immediate need of having the newest version even though I did not qualify for the discount. I was willing to pay whatever. Another example is that I have plenty of shoes but if I see one on sale, I most definitely will need that pair as well.

Discussion Question No. 2: What issues arising from advertising do you think are the most problematic? Why?

One of the most important issues that arise from advertising are manipulation and appealing to personal feelings or emotions when trying to convince an individual to purchase any given item. Manipulation is one of the most odd and insensible techniques that arise from advertising. Salesmen particularly use this technique most often. Advertising has indeed and increasingly promoted consumerism. Consumerism may be good for companies or sellers but it is a big and problematic issue that consumers confront daily. Moral values have been impacted by this type of attitude and way of living. It is also insensible and unreal. What you may possess doesn’t determine your moral values or how important someone may be. This is not necessarily the most important aspect to factor in when evaluating an individual. This aspect has indeed