Discussion: Does Advertising Foster Materialism

Marketers continue to push the envelope as they challenge society’s norms regarding what topics are appropriate to discuss in public. Advertisers are often blamed for promoting a materialistic society by making their products as desirable as possible. Do you agree with this? If yes, is materialism a bad thing? If no, what are your reasons? Please provide two specific examples of a product that supports your beliefs about the role of advertising in society.