This book reformulates the sociological subdiscipline known as the sociology of knowledge. Knowledge is presented as more than ideology, including as well false consciousness, propaganda, science and art.

In his most seminal book, Herbert Marcuse sharply objects to what he saw as pervasive one-dimensional thinking-the uncritical and conformist acceptance of existing structures, norms and behaviours. Originally published in 1964, One Dimensional Man quickly became one of the most important texts in the politically radical sixties. Marcuse's searing indictment of Western society remains as chillingly relevant today as it was at its first writing.

Many critics have questioned the ethics of advertising as an institution in current American society. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine three negative social trends that have been attributed to advertising: (a) the elevation of consumption over other social values, (b) the increasing use of goods to satisfy social needs, and (c) the increasing dissatisfaction of individual consumers. This explanation yields a defense of advertising which argues that the underlying cause of these negative trends is not advertising, (...) but a larger social factor - capitalism. Solutions that address the capitalistic roots of these negative social trends are suggested. (shrink)

This study used a content analysis of television commercials to analyze the depiction of pre-teens and teens. It uncovered evidence that children are not often depicted in scholastic roles in the commercials. Further, it found that when children are shown in these roles, the portrayal is frequently not favorable. Various implications of the findings and recommendations to advertisers are set forth. Foremost among these is that television commercials do not seem to be assisting in forming positive attitudes toward scholastic activities. (...) More favorable depictions could improve the image of scholarly activity and assist in reducing criticisms of television advertising Advertiser's who seek action prescriptions as to how they might ethically depict children can benefit from applications of the study results to their creative efforts. (shrink)