Conveying Manipulation
Conveying Manipulation in Advertising Although they oppose each other, the concept of manipulation in advertising plays a significant role in Solomon’s essay, “Masters of Desire,” and Olgivy’s essay, “What’s Wrong with Advertising.” Analyzing views of manipulation from both ends of the spectrum helped me realize the effectiveness and adequacy of both arguments. Manipulation was a core aspect in both essays, and in some ways their ideas came across strong and convincing, while others were not so persuasive or believable. For example, Solomon’s explanation of the relationship between manipulation and the subconscious was a strong example, as well as Olgivy’s belief that advertisements are an effective way to sell a product. However both arguments were weakened by Solomon’s lack of specific effects that manipulation has on people, and Olgivy’s completely biased view on manipulation as well as several other flaws. Solomon’s main argument for manipulation in advertisements is that it affects the subconscious of the “elite” class as well as everyday American. ... With these examples Solomon further proves his view on the concept of manipulation in advertisements. ... Expressing some specific effects that manipulation in advertising have on people, would cause the reader to be more sympathetic. ... By expressing these ideas in his essay the audience would sympathize much more towards the effects manipulation has on the subconscious of Americans from every social status.