Look at Fig. 13. What impact do such advertisements have on the public mind? Do you think everyone reacts to printed material in the same way?

Fig. 13 — Advertisements at a railway station in England, a lithograph by Alfred Concanen, 1874.

The picture, a lithograph by Alfred Concanen, 1874 offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of mass advertising and its potential impact on the public mind. Such advertisements can have a variety of effects, both positive and negative.

Positive effects

1. Raising awareness — Advertisements can inform people about new products, services, or causes they may not have been aware of before.
2. Educating the public — Ads can be used to educate people about important issues, such as health, safety, or the environment.
3. Promoting positive social change — Ads can be used to challenge stereotypes and promote social justice.

Negative effects

1. Creating unrealistic expectations — Ads often portray idealized versions of life, which can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction with one's own life.
2. Encouraging materialism — Ads often focus on selling products, which can lead to a focus on material possessions and a desire for things one may not need.
3. Exploiting insecurities — Ads often play on people's insecurities, such as their fears of being unattractive or unpopular, to sell products.

Different reactions to advertisements

Not everyone reacts to advertisements in the same way. Some people are more susceptible to the persuasive techniques used in advertising than others. Factors such as age, education level, and cultural background can all influence how people respond to ads. Additionally, people's individual needs and wants will also play a role in how they perceive advertisements.