Consumerism and Advertising

Paper Summary:

This paper notes that the U.S. is becoming a nation of robots, programmed nearly every waking moment by television, radio, billboard , newspaper, magazine and Internet ads. The author points out that these advertisements manipulate emotions, insult intelligence and promise unending bliss if the consumer buys whatever they are selling. The paper relates that these advertisements wear down the potential consumer by relentlessly repeating their message.

From the Paper:

"Having subjected myself over a twenty-four period to television ads, radio ads, billboard ads, newspaper ads, magazine ads, and Internet ads, I rewarded myself by seeking refuge in a bar, only to find myself surrounded by four walls filled with Budweiser beer ads, Canadian Club whiskey ads, Bacardi rum ads, and bar ads promoting two-for-one drinks until Happy Hour ended. Not feeling all that happy, I left the bar and was almost run over by a city bus adorned with ads promoting the comfort, efficiency and safety of city buses."

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