EOC Week 2: Questionable Ethics in Advertising

“Did you know there is lead in some candy from Mexico? It is true that lead has been found in some chili and tamarind candy from Mexico” (http://www.leadinmexicancandy.com/flyer.html). Ice cream trucks are a great resource for kids to have their treats brought directly to them, making it to where they don't have to ask mom and dad for a trip to the store. Unfortunately, they may have to start asking for a trip to the doctor if ice cream trucks keep providing Lucas, a product linked to having disturbing amounts of lead. Their colorful packaging is able to attract kids into buying one of the most harmful products available to them.

 

Sex and cigarettes don’t typically go together unless you’re thinking of movies and t.v. shows where the couple smokes after a steamy session. An ad from Paris changes this thought by posing a young boy about to give a man in a suit oral sex with the man’s penis replaced by a cigarette. The same is done with a young girl. Underneath, the caption reads Smoking means being a slave to tobacco. “The leader of the organization behind the campaign acknowledged the ads were meant to shock and said such provocative campaigns were the only way to reach young people” (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35565815).


 

Using celebrities in ad campaigns is a popular way to gain attention, particularly within the younger demographic. Like it or not, they have the power to skyrocket a group or company depending on how they choose to view an ad. Shocking pictures tend to catch younger viewers eyes, allowing them to be influenced or opinionated by the ad itself and remember it better. This tactic was used for an ad to get 18 year olds to vote. “Declare Yourself’s campaign blankets the landscape of popular culture, as well as universities and high schools, with a simple, clear message: REGISTER and VOTE!” (http://www.kindaa.com/jessica-alba-and-christina-aguilera-new-controversial-ad-pics/).