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Conflict Theory

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Conflict Theory

1. How does one of Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism or

Feminism apply to this form of marketing (you need to select a different

perspective than the one you identified in assignment 1)?

Structural Functionalism, a sociological framework, provides valuable knowledge

for implementing promotional techniques. In contrast to the Conflict Theory covered in

Assignment 1, Functionalism highlights the mutual dependence of distinct aspects in

society and their impact on its overall stability and functioning. The theory perceives

society as an intricate system where every component serves a particular purpose which

adds to the general welfare and balance of the complete entity. Within the advertising

framework, Functionalism underscores the importance of advertising and promotional

efforts in upholding societal stability.

Smith (2019) states that Functionalism perceives industry as a vital aspect of

society. The perception is that marketing is a tool that contributes to sustaining a state of

equilibrium between availability and need. According to the functionalist approach,

marketing aims to spread information about products and services, generate awareness,

and fulfill consumers' needs and desires. It encourages financial expansion and enables

the efficient operation of the commercial sector.

Furthermore, Functionalism acknowledges the interdependence among different

societal establishments, such as enterprises and branding. It recognizes that promotional

campaigns rest on different cultural institutions, for example, academia, the press, and

heritage. For example, schools and colleges offer the required understanding and abilities
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to people who will ultimately engage in promotional activities. One can be involved in

the position of customer or expert. The media is essential in spreading commercial

communications and influencing customers' tastes.

According to the functionalist perspective, marketing plays a role in the

integration of individuals. This process is through forming collective signs and

significances. The theory of Symbolic Interactionism, an additional sociological

viewpoint, supplements Functionalism by shedding light on the importance of symbols,

signs, and interactions in influencing human conduct. Nonetheless, it highlights the

significance of personal understandings and the significance of these representations and

communications. Through marketing, products and promotions take on symbolic

manifestations that individuals employ to form their own identities. Additionally, it

functions as a way of engaging with individuals.

2. Are there any countermeasures that can be put into place culturally and

socially to minimize the power of corporate industries targeting youth

consumerism?

The influence of multinational companies aiming at young consumer culture is a

major worry in contemporary culture. Multiple interventions may be enacted in the

cultural and social realm to reduce the impact. Such initiatives strive to empower youth,

increase awareness, and advocate for analytical thinking abilities to navigate through a

culture of consumerism. The use involving Sensory Conflict Theory, as mentioned by Ng

et al. (2020), offers insights regarding potential countermeasures.

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A single cultural method requires fostering information literacy instruction. By

integrating digital literacy into educational programs, adolescents can acquire vital

proficiencies for critically examining and assessing advertisements and promotional

content. These actions empower individuals to make well-informed choices and

withstand the persuasion of deceptive strategies. Students will acquire to challenge the

purpose behind effective methods. The individuals will moreover realize manipulative

tactics utilized by companies. Education on media literacy may encourage a more critical

and educated group of buyers.

Another societal strategy is to advocate for a transition towards mindful

consumerism. This requires advocating for ethical and environmentally friendly spending

habits among young people. By increasing knowledge regarding the ecological and

societal effects of excessive consumption, individuals can improve the selection process.

Additionally, they can help organizations that coincide with their principles. Efforts like

equitable commerce, environmentally conscious goods, and efforts to raise awareness

about social responsibility can empower young people to make mindful buying choices.

These programs offer data and materials that assist youth in comprehending the influence

of the options they select concerning nature and the community.

Societal measures may include community involvement as well as group effort.

Establishing channels targeting youth to express their worries regarding corporate

marketing and the culture of consumption can give them the power to take on the role of

involved actors in instigating modification. By offering them an opportunity to voice

their perspectives and participate in valuable conversations, we can assist them in

nurturing logical reasoning capabilities and perception of autonomy in confronting these

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challenges. Movements led by young people, like community-based initiatives,

demonstrations, or online advocacy, can shed light on the matters at stake and influence

business sectors to engage in conscientious marketing approaches. Nevertheless, it is

crucial to observe that more than these initiatives alone might be needed to create

substantial change.

Moreover, rules and guidelines could be enforced to curb business marketing

toward teenagers. Authorities have the power to enforce harsher restrictions on

promotional activities to guarantee the protection of unused or controlled youths.

Moreover, they can implement instructional programs instructing adolescents concerning

media literacy and the skill of critical thinking. The rules may comprise restrictions

regarding promotional material, positioning, and scheduling to safeguard the health and

advancement of youthful customers.

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References

Cox, R. W. (2019). Introduction: bringing business back in—the business conflict theory of

international relations. In Business and the state in international relations (pp. 1-7).

Routledge.

Ng, A. K., Chan, L. K., & Lau, H. Y. (2020). A study of cybersickness and sensory conflict

theory using a motion-coupled virtual reality system. Displays, 61, 101922.