Advertising and Society

Organized in a “point/counterpoint” format, this up-to-date text examines the impact of advertising on society. It is designed to spark discussion and help students understand the complexities of the issues being presented. Ideal for the undergraduate and graduate alike, it features a unique balance between criticism and practice that is rarely found on the market today.

• Organized in a unique, yet effective debate format designed to spark discussion — even among audiences with little or no previous knowledge of the subject
• Each chapter begins with an overview of the history and central issues surrounding a topic, and concludes with a summary of the arguments presented
• Includes suggestions for further research, questions for discussion, paper topics, and a bibliography of additional readings
• Offers an industry-based prospective, as opposed to a solely critical one
• Written in an accessible style that lends substantial clarity to complex issues

Advertising is a central aspect of our culture and our economy. Whether it is used in political campaigns or during the Super Bowl, we cannot deny the pervasive nature of the medium. In the classroom it is becoming increasingly true that whether or not students are planning to work in advertising, they will be engaged with it.

Organized in a “point/counterpoint” format, this text examines the impact of advertising on society. It is designed to spark discussion and help students understand the complexities of the issues being presented. Ideal for undergraduate and graduate alike, it features a balance between criticism and practice that is rarely found on the market today.

Carol J. Pardun is Professor and Director, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, University of South Carolina, where she teaches advertising courses and conducts research on the impact of the media on adolescents. She is president elect of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, and will become president in October 2009.