WOMEN AND SMOKING: THE ROLES PUBLIC RELATIONS AND ADVERTISING COMPANIES HAVE HISTORICALLY PLAYED

Abstract: The art of persuasion is a highly powerful tool in virtually every situation whereby one entity seeks to sway the behavior of another entity. A fundamental component for survival, persuasive techniques are found throughout the natural world in such forms as camouflage (chameleon), deception (Venus flytrap) and coercion (humans), all of whom have the single goal of influencing their respective targets. Public relations and advertisers tapped into this particularly effective tactic very early in the marketing game, realizing in short order just how vulnerable people are to various forms of manipulation. Gender focus provides an especially fruitful outcome when advertisers strive to reach their target market through strongly engaging social and personal appeals.

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Catagory: Feminists, Activists & The Struggle For Womens' Rights

Subcatagory: Women'S Issues & Gender Study

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