Consumer Programming and Marketing Vulnerability: Analysis of Sugar Content Awareness and Subconscious Persuasion
Overview
This paper discusses the tension between corporate nutritional responsibility and consumer vulnerability to marketing. The author analyzes General Mills' approach to sugar content while engaging with Harris's argument about subconscious programming, concluding that marketing techniques exploit psychological vulnerabilities that persist even when consumers understand how they work.
What this reflection paper covers
- Analysis of Sanger and Bible's discussion on General Mills' sugar content and consumer confidence
- Exploration of Harris's theory of subconscious programming and personal smartphone usage example
- Argument that understanding marketing techniques does not immunize consumers from psychological persuasion
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Discussion
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Discussion
Sanger and Bible’s are discussing sugar how people are sometimes worried about the sugar per serving, and other times fast. However, it was stated that General Mills was good for both shareholders and the public. This is because the products were suitable for dieters and other people concerned about what they consume, including those who wanted low sugar with whole grains. This is a reasonable justification because it eliminates all the worry that what someone might be consuming may contribute to an unhealthy body. It enhances consumer confidence and allows them to purchase products from General Mills with fear.
On the other hand, I agree with Harris that we are off "kind programmed." I feel programmed in the way I utilize my phone. Whenever I wake up, I always have to spare several minutes to check whether there is any message or missed call, even when I did not expect any. This is an action that happens subconsciously and does not need any outside stimuli. Yes, all of us are programmed by the things we have on a day-to-day basis.
In the arguments, Harris acknowledges that even though she knows how the app works, he remains vulnerable and 'programmed.' I think that whenever we understand how the marketing techniques work, it does not make us immune. This is because marketing is a psychological approach that deals with the subconscious mind.