Advertising from the Latin word “reclamare” means to assert, to protest, to shout out. The meaning of the word is quite contradictory. And the boundaries of the end and the beginning of this phenomenon are not easy to determine. On the one hand, advertising is a powerful weapon for competition, for business development, for investment. On the other hand – it is an annoying “fly” that follows us at every step. So there are two sides of the same coin. Advertising is something useful and something harmful.
“The Pros: Advertising is necessary.
All those who are “for” talk about its “necessity.” But is it really necessary? Yes, probably. But more likely for those who run it, who direct and control it. It is useful if you disseminate information for certain business; it is useful for social adaptation of people; it is useful for politicians who strive to win all kinds of elections and other events that are significant only for them. As part of integrated marketing communications contributes to the development of modern technology.
But advertising also supports the national communication system. Radio, television, magazines and newspapers are funded in part by advertising. Provides information that can help consumers make intelligent choices. In a changing, complex economy, consumers have an urgent need to become intimately familiar with new firms, new products, and improvements to existing products. Advertising is the means of disseminating such information.
“The Cons: Advertising is intrusive
So what can be said about the “against” arguments? Like the arguments “for” they can be argued and disagreed with, but should still be voiced. Basically, the purpose of advertising, which, of course, is voiced to the masses is to convince, to offer. But many people believe that advertising mostly imposes this or that product, technique or anything else. Many advertisers resort to the so-called method of “illusion”, simply put – deception. Despite the fact that deception in our legislation is strongly discouraged. The deception here, of course, is more likely not criminal, but psychological. Another disadvantage is probably the fact that advertising is so wrapped up in our lives with its threads, that we can not see it, probably, only if we close our eyes, and even then, there is no reason to hope that some catchy song from TV will not disturb us even with closed eyes.
There are considerable external annoyances in connection with advertising. Bulletin boards degrade the roadside landscape and generally spoil our cultural life. Consumption of unhealthy products such as tobacco and alcohol is increasing.
Arguments against advertising. Some arguments by opponents of advertising supposedly “debunk” arguments in favor of advertising, while others raise other issues.
Why do we need to raise the issue of advertising? Probably so that everyone realizes for himself – advertising is necessary. But everything in our world is relative. You have to know the measure and have an opinion.