Changing the World...

One ad at a time.

At least, that's a long term hope and goal.

As a new blogger, all one can really ask for is that people read one's blog and maybe post some nice and interesting comments (*wink *wink). But if something you say or write can serve as a catalyst for real change, even in just one individual, well, then that's more than anyone can dream of.

There is a cornucopia of papers, critiques, articles, and research out there dedicated to analyzing advertising strategies and their effects on numerous aspects of society, which I can only begin to touch upon within the limitations of my blog. This information is so easy to find, even as new information is being discovered everyday. I think the implications of these studies won't necessarily force some BIG sweeping change...oh, but the effect is still there, and it's quite a subtle one.

I'm talking about AWARENESS.

Awareness for who? Advertising agencies or the average citizen? Well, I suppose both. (Now, my focus has always been on identity information, but of course awareness can be applied to other effects as well.) I think that studies will show advertising agencies that the messages and images they create in their ads, especially if they are negative or incorrect or not there at all, can have a debilitating effect on one's identity. If they become aware, then maybe they will be inspired to change their previous strategies.

And what if advertising agencies don't change? Then it's up to the average citizen to be aware and make informed decisions on how they wish to see themselves. Because of the stress of going to school, joining activities, looking for jobs, etc. for the purpose of figuring out the kind of person we want to be, we sometimes turn to other people and other things for 'inspiration'. But what if we can look at these "things" with a critical eye, to stop and say "wait a minute..."?

Do you just want to be another stereotype?

Advertising is pervasive and persuasive. And it doesn't seem to be disappearing or changing anytime soon. In the meantime, we can just be aware of it.