SEXUAL CONTENT IN ADVERTISING AND MASS MEDIA PROGRAMMING
Comment and discuss about this continued trend in the "liberalization" of media content despite the last few decades of conservative "family values" political movements and organizations - and their like minded members of congress -fighting a loosing battle to have state and federal governments’ control over what they view as harmful media content. Where is the trend leading in the near to moderate term?
Is it so sad? Do you want to go back to the societal norms of the 1890s? or 1920s? or 1960s?
Which years do YOU think the media portrayed acceptable moral standards?
Good heavens! I do not want the federal, state, or local governments telling me what I can read or see. I'll be the judge of content that is harmful to me.
If I'm offended by an ad, I don't look at it and don't buy the product. If I'm offended by a book or TV program or internet blog, I put it away or switch to another channel or website.
Freedom of speech was written into our Constitution for a purpose. And that purpose still stands.
I agree, now where would you say the trend is leading in the near to moderate term?
We'll gradually see more liberalization. Society's norms keep changing, whether we like it or not.
My mother's generation was the first to see women cut their hair short, wear short skirts, and pants. They scandalized their elders. When I was a child, a married couple couldn't be shown in movies in the same bed.
What do you think?
I think sadly you are correct, so I guess we got to accept what it is.
The trend towards sexual content in advertising and mass media programming is influenced by various factors, including cultural shifts, changing attitudes towards sexuality, and market demands. To understand this continued trend, it's helpful to consider the historical context and the influence of conservative movements.
Over the last few decades, there have been movements and organizations advocating for conservative "family values" and greater control over media content deemed harmful. These movements, often associated with political ideologies, have sought to enforce stricter regulations and censorship to protect what they perceive as moral standards.
However, despite their efforts, the media landscape has continued to liberalize in terms of sexual content. This can be explained by several factors:
1. Cultural shifts: Society's attitudes towards sexuality have become more accepting and diverse. Taboos surrounding sexuality have gradually diminished, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of sexual expression and individual freedom.
2. Market demands: Media producers and advertisers respond to market demands, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. Studies have shown that sexual content in advertising can be attention-grabbing and can contribute to brand recall. Agencies and businesses recognize this, leading to its continued use in campaigns.
3. Freedom of expression: In liberal democracies, there is a strong emphasis on freedom of expression. This means that media outlets have the right to produce and disseminate content, including sexual content, within certain legal boundaries.
In the near to moderate term, the trend towards sexual content in advertising and mass media programming is likely to continue, albeit with some modifications. While conservative movements may continue to push for stricter regulations, it is difficult to turn back the tide of cultural change, especially in an era of globalization and digital media. Moreover, as technology evolves, media consumption habits are also changing, giving individuals greater control over the content they choose to engage with.
It's important to note that different countries have varying cultural, political, and regulatory frameworks, which can significantly impact the trends observed in each location. Thus, the trajectory of this trend can vary across different regions.