We now live in an era where the couple is loosely defined. We have intercial couples, straight couples, and gay/lesbian couples. Kids are being exposed to many different types of media on a daily basis. Many of societies 'norms' are being challenged. 50 years ago, America was working to end racial discrimination. In the 70's, people began experimenting with sex. In today's world, GLBT's are fighting for equal marriage rights. Sex is beginning to become an average image for an ad. Since the 1920's, ads have been slowing taking of the clothing and using stronger language.
This ad from the 1920's shows a pretty young woman looking into the mirror at her beautiful and shiny hair. The woman is wearing a simple black nightgown that covers the majority of her body. The ad simply states "Cleanses and beautifies the hair" - Cuticura.
This ad is much more recent than the last. The woman is staring very sexually at the camera with only a black bra on. Over her image is a message stating "I can't cook. Who cares?" - Wonderbra. This image is much more seductive than the last. Although both images could be thought of as seductive to that era.
The 'norms' for ads is changing. People are becoming used to the use of sex as a way to sell products. Models for ads are beginning to show their genitals for the good of the product. Being raised in a Catholic household, seeing images like these were frowned upon. Mom would tell me to pray for the models of those pictures. But yet the ad agencies haven't changed their game plan. They are still using sex. They will continue using sex. But where will the people finally draw the line?
I'm sure you don't like being grouped with the "male pigs" that encourage this media, but many think that men are to blame for these ads, since they like naked women, but these ads are for products that would entice women. We should ask who is really buying into these images and why are they still around? Men or women?
ReplyDeleteGreat post I feel that this is a relevant subject to the United States today. The FCC is slowly loosening their restrictions on sexuality, possibly in an attempt to follow what European ads and television have done. In Europe it is culturally acceptable to be sexual and show this type of thing, but to them violence is a no no. It is all a matter of what the cultural norm is. Good catch on this one.
ReplyDeleteI loved this post because I liked how you showed the differances between ads now and ads back then. I agree with what you say that the norms of our society is changing and in my opinion they are progressively getting worst. Now just think of TV. This year is the first year you can say B**** on TV without it getting bleeped. Pretty soon it will be other words.
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