Supporters of advertising answer each of the objections to it. For which objection do they accept that the criticism cannot be completely overruled?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Confuses the buyers
Option (1) Confuses the buyers — Correct. Critics say so many products make similar claims that buyers get confused. Supporters reply that buyers are rational and decide on price, style and size, so they can clear their confusion. Still, they accept that this criticism cannot be completely overruled.
Option (2) Adds to cost — Incorrect. To “adds to cost”, supporters reply that more demand brings economies of scale. So the per unit cost comes down, which lessens the burden on consumers.
Option (3) Encourages sale of inferior products — Incorrect. To “inferior products”, supporters reply that quality is a relative concept. Buyers buy a product of a given quality if it suits them.
Option (4) Undermines social values — Incorrect. To “social values”, supporters say the criticism is not entirely true. Advertising informs buyers about new products, and the final choice rests with them.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “3. Confuses the Buyers: Another criticism against advertisement is that so many products are being advertised which makes similar claims that the buyer gets confused as to which one is true and which one should be relied upon. For example, we may note similar claims of whiteness or stain removing abilities in competing brands of detergent powder or claims of whiteness of tooth or ‘feelings of freshness’ in competing brands of toothpaste that it is sometimes confusing to us as to which one to buy. The supporters of advertisement, however, argue that we are all rational human beings who make our decisions for purchase of products on factors such as price, style, size, etc. Thus the buyers can clear their confusion by analysing the information provided on the advertisements and other sources before taking a decision to purchase a product. However, this criticism cannot be completely overruled.” |