Aspect of the VBM
Apply at least one aspect of the VBM to the following discussion prompt:
Vulnerable Consumers and the Affect of Digital Technology
Matthew 25:40, “…Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
One of the areas of ethical concern for marketers is vulnerable consumers. The article in the first link below explains the historical problems of masked advertising which is related to puffery. The second and third links refer to vulnerable consumers. The fourth link addresses the new technology that allows highly targeted digital advertising.
What is the obligation of marketers toward vulnerable consumers?
How should marketers respond to this issue?
How should Christian marketers respond to this issue?
Does today’s world of highly personalized and targeted advertising add a new level of complexity to these ethical issues?
Sample Answer
The proliferation of digital advertising raises ethical concerns regarding vulnerable consumers. Through the lens of Value-Based Marketing (VBM), we can explore the obligations of marketers, particularly Christian marketers, in navigating this complex landscape.
Vulnerable Consumers and Ethics
The first article highlights “masked advertising” as a historical concern, akin to puffery. Today’s issue involves targeted advertising exploiting vulnerabilities. Vulnerable consumers, as defined in the second and third links, can be susceptible to misleading claims or manipulative practices due to factors like limited knowledge, social pressure, or cognitive decline.