Question

We know that society has individuals who are vulnerable to advertisement such as children and our seniors and they are exploited by companies. Present ethical theories and opinions to address this statement.

Answer 1

In my views, the ethical framework most appropriate for businesses, in general, can be the utilitarianism framework. As per this framework, all ethical actions of business must be directed to generate the greatest amount of good for largest amount of people. Utilitarianism framework also suggests that the business must develop its processes and business actions in a way that they cause the least harm to majority of society.

Using the utilitarianism approach, companies can develop their advertising policies so as to project their products for greater good. Any kind of over-exaggeration or false claims must be avoided as this may mislead the potential consumers and bluff them in the longer run. Ethical issues like exploitation of women and children, discrimination or stereotyping, racial comments, etc. must not be projected in the advertisements of the company. The advertisements must not harm the innocent mindsets of the children or the sentimental and cultural values of the seniors.