Susan Gail Taylor
Analyzing Ads: Gender
We need to be aware of how advertisers appeal to us, and we should think critically about the persuasive messages we encounter to ensure we are savvy, not passive, consumers. Because consumers purchase products with which they identify, it is important to examine the subtexts of advertisements as well as the role those subtexts play in determining what products men...
Published on Feb 03rd 2012
Analyzing Ads: Race
Typically, the first thing we look for in a photograph is ourselves. Advertisers recognize this fact and use it to their advantage. Because of this, we can learn a lot about a company’s target customer base by observing the people featured in its advertisements. The appearance (and, in commercials, the sounds) of the people as well as the setting (location)...
Published on Feb 03rd 2012
Analyzing Ads: Socioeconomic Status
To what social class do you belong? How do you know? Can others tell by how you talk, dress, and act? By how much money you have? By your level of education? By your occupation? Despite the presumed cultural ideal of social equality in America, key markers such as income and education are often used for social classification. Advertisers for...
Published on Feb 03rd 2012