Role of advertising in bringing about changes in culture, custom and tradition
A characteristic of human culture is that change occurs. We can see that how over time peoples habits, tastes, styles, behaviours and values have changed.
Rapid industrialization has changed many long honoured attitudes regarding time and women.
Instant food, labours saving devices, fast food establishments have all gained rapid acceptance.
High birth rate due to early marriage, the Hindu religion’s emphasis on bearing sons, dependence on children for security
and old age and low level of education among the rural masses are cultural patterns, which are accepting gradual change due to advertising.
Advertising promotes more than mere products in our popular culture. Images used in advertising are often idolized; they
eventually set the standard which we in turn feel we must live up to.
Advertisements serve to show us what the ideal image is, and further tell us how to obtain it. Advertisers essentially have
the power to promote positive images or negative images this in turn affects our culture.
In many cases, advertisers want to influence the public for buying a certain idea, product or service, directly impacting their free wills.
The skilled public speaker and advertiser will take advantage of people's weakest points, such as greed and desire and attempt to sway them to do what they want.
Examples:
1. The cosmetic and fashion industries keep telling people that they will improve their self image with this cosmetic or that fashion.
2. The manufacturers or cars, truck and SUVs constantly say you need to have this new gadget or feature.
3. The junk food manufacturers tell you that in order to have fun you must consume our product, etc.