Ethics In Advertising

Posted by Rahna on August 18, 2008 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

I usually don’t slam a lot of negatives on this blog, but honestly, I just have to express my opinion about the McDonald’s chicken sandwich advertising during the Olympics.  Ugh.  The ads feature athletes announcing early a.m. times (5:30 am, 6 am, 6:30 am), the implication being that you need to get up early in the morning to reach perfection.  The huuuuuuuge, implausible stretch that McDonalds makes is that this is when you need to get up in the morning to get their fabulous new chicken sandwich.  Please.

I’m not a health nut by any stretch of the imagination, but even as an avid marketer, this commercial crosses the line of ethics.  Having athletes make this endorsement, complete with ‘bite and smile’ shots, is so disappointing.    

Advertisers need to take ethical stands in the work they do, because (if you are anything like me), your work is a natural extension of your life.  Choose wisely, because your work matters.  It makes an impact in the world.  Make sure it’s a positive impact. 

Okay, I’ll get down off my soapbox now.  I’m interested in what you think?  Do you agree?  Let me know.