Post #3: Racism in Advertising

1. Is it ever right to racially stereotype for advertising purposes?
2. Is racism in advertising a thing of the past?
3. Do advertisers have ethical responsibilities?

I don't believe that it is right to racially stereotype for advertising purposes, however I do see the reasons why ad agencies may choose this approach in their campaigns. Racism in the media is a big red flag in todays society and anything that even closely resembles racism is sure to raise eyebrows. Edgy and shocking ad campaigns may catch viewers attention more effectively, but it is unfair to the ethnic groups that are being portrayed in these ads. Take for example the infamous Mountain Dew commercials that featured Tyler the Creator.

As evidenced in this recent Mountain Dew commercial, racism is definitely not a thing of the past. Racism is alive and well in advertisements of all types. In this commercial Tyler the Creator plays the voice of Felicia the Goat and is arrested for a DUI. In the lineup the goat is standing next to four black guys. Although some may argue that the black people in the lineup were just Tyler's friends, the advertisers who made this commercial still have the ethical responsibility of being sensitive to all ethnic groups. Other viewers might see this commercial as enforcing the stereotype that African Americans commit crimes. Advertisers must find ways to create effective ads that also aren't too offensive. Boundaries can be stretched, but once a group of people are offended thats where the line should be drawn.