The world of advertisements

Nowadays, we are inundated with advertisements for almost every item we encounter in our day-to-day lives, be it pipes, cement, or electronic gadgets. Advertisements serve as a means to showcase how a product is used and its practical applications. Companies invest significant amount of money in creating creative and attractive advertisements to capture the attention of potential customers. These advertisements play a crucial role as they form the first impression of a product and create a perceived need for it. However, it is important to be aware of certain pitfalls and negative aspects associated with some of these advertisements.

Some companies resort to manipulative tactics, such as creating a sense of unfulfillment if the product is not purchased or exaggerating price reductions to lure customers. They may try to establish the belief that their product is more trustworthy and superior to other brands. Unfortunately, some advertisements also employ stereotypical and gender-biased messaging, which can perpetuate harmful social norms and ideals.

One prevalent trend is showcasing girls using certain products to attract boys, especially in the context of makeup and cosmetic brands. Such advertisements can send the wrong message, suggesting that being black or not having fair skin is undesirable, leading people to believe they should apply makeup to conform to societal beauty standards. Similarly, there are instances where men are portrayed using men’s products, and women are depicted as chasing after them, reinforcing outdated notions about relationships and attraction.

These types of ads often set unrealistic beauty and social standards, implying that gaining attention from the opposite gender is the ultimate goal in life, while neglecting other essential qualities and values. This can lead to unhealthy and superficial attitudes, impacting self-esteem and mental well-being.

On the other hand, there are advertisements that aim to raise awareness about social issues, such as educating girl children and promoting sanitary cleanliness. These ads serve a positive purpose, as they utilise the extensive reach of television to deliver crucial messages and foster positive change in society.

It is crucial to remember that advertisements are a form of persuasion and may not always reflect the reality of the world. As consumers, we should approach advertisements critically and not believe everything at face value. The real world is far more diverse and complex than the simplified narratives presented in advertisements.

In conclusion, while advertisements play a significant role in shaping consumer choices, they can also have negative implications when perpetuating harmful stereotypes or unrealistic standards. As viewers, we should be discerning and aware of the messaging behind these ads, making informed decisions based on our genuine needs and values. By being critical consumers, we can encourage responsible advertising practices and promote a more inclusive and positive media environment.