Racial Stereotyping

1. Is it ever right to racially stereotype for advertising purposes?

No. Advertising is more than just marketing a product through media. It is through this media that humans learn about societal norms. Considering the fact that "Tv advertising is the top way in which Americans learn about new products and brands" (Ispos, July 2013), it would seem apparent that a huge number of people are viewing these ads. Add to that the fact that "TV ads are trusted by 62%, leading all paid media", and you have a huge number of people trusting what they're watching is authentic and valuable. This is not just relating to the product itself but inherently the messages behind the ad that persuade them to buy it. Portraying racial stereotypes over advertising is relaying the message that society accepts these stereotypes as acceptable and normal. This is why I don't think it is right to advertise these stereotypes.

2. Is racism in advertising a thing of the past?


It would appear not. With a quick google search we see that every single year up to the current year, companies are releasing ads that are offensive enough for the public to outcry for its removal from broadcast.

3. Do advertisers have ethical responsiblities?

Inherently, yes. Back to the point that advertising influences people to what is acceptable to a society. To ignore the influential factor would be unethical. These ads can affect people personally, not to mention that they affect the overall industry and its views on what is and what is not acceptable. It would be ethical to think about the overall implications of an ad before its release. More often than not though, monetary issues are prioritized before anything else.

source: http://www.marketingcharts.com/uncategorized/data-dive-us-tv-ad-spend-and-influence-22524/