Which of the following best explains why some psychologists argue that subliminal messages should be banned from advertising?

• A. Because subliminal messages guarantee increased sales for all advertised products.
• B. Because subliminal messages are always easily detected and therefore ineffective in advertising.
• C. Because subliminal messages are illegal in all countries and violate international law.
• D. Because subliminal messages may influence consumer behavior without their conscious awareness, raising ethical concerns about manipulation.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of subliminal messages: these are stimuli presented below the threshold of conscious awareness, meaning people are not consciously aware of perceiving them.
2. Recognize that some psychologists argue subliminal messages can influence consumer behavior by affecting decisions without the consumer's conscious knowledge.
3. Consider the ethical implications: influencing behavior without awareness raises concerns about manipulation and the autonomy of consumers in making informed choices.
4. Evaluate the options given: the correct explanation focuses on ethical concerns due to unconscious influence, rather than guaranteed sales, legality, or detectability.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is that subliminal messages may influence consumer behavior without conscious awareness, which is why some psychologists advocate banning them to protect consumers.