Dear Readers,
How many of us have actually read the terms and conditions before clicking the " I Accept" button? Or have read the risk factors involved with taking a particular medicine? Or have read "Smoking is injurious to health. Smoking kills" before puffing?
My guess is just as good as yours. These words are always printed at the end, in small font which should not be mistaken as blotched ink! All companies are under a statutory obligation to warn the unsuspecting consumers against the side effects of the product. This is where the marketing gurus play their cards by advertising or marketing a product which requires a complete knowledge of consumer psyche, analysis of the consumer behavior and more.
It is human nature to be attracted towards things that are big, shiny or glossy : Eye Catching. Playing to this weakness, companies advertise their products with promising results and appealing claims that lure the innocent buyers to the trap. This is where the placebo effect falls into place.
Placebo Effect:
It is a term used medically when a substance or procedure is administered making the patient to surmise something without it objectively being so. The placebo effect is exhibited in a wide variety of cases. From relieving pain to reducing weight.
Falling prey to the placebo effect, the vicious circle entraps the consumers with pseudo ideas and unrealistic expectations. On one hand, I applaud the smart marketing that fulfills the purpose of selling the products but on the other hand making someone believe into something that is exaggerated and window dressed makes me question the ethics.
Dr. Kalam always encouraged people to ask questions in order to illuminate minds. Maybe we should apply that ideology when it comes to creating an awareness against the negative effect of the placebo. Slimming pills : Will it keep me fit forever? Pore Cleaner: Does this fancy thing actually make my pores pretty?
P.S. I am not against any company nor its products, this post is my way of encouraging smart purchasing in the times of smart marketing.
Until next post, stay tuned ! :)
