Analyzing Credibility

Analyzing Credibility

CRT 205

Analyzing Credibility

Advertisements cause awareness or may induce a person to purchase a product or believe an idea. Moore and Parker paint a better view of what advertisement does by saying: “Advertising assaults us at every turn, attempting to sell us goods, services, beliefs, and attitudes.” The two examples that have been chosen for review are from Progressive’s “Sonic” and Wendy’s “The W” video advertisements. It is clear both Progressive and Wendy’s purchase and create their own commercials. Both advertisements fall under the category that brings out feelings in us such as humor and a heartwarming relationship between a father and a daughter. I do not detect a slant in the Wendy’s advertisement because the intent is to pull you into the relationship enough to purchase their product. On the other hand, I do detect a slant in the Progressive advertisement. Notice how the character Flo stops Sonic and proceeds to inform him that “there's an easier way! We compare your Progressive Direct rate to other top companies' so you get a great price. No more running around.” It is noticeable that Progressive’s rates are placed on the board as the cheapest rate when all other insurance rates are expensive. I find that the Wendy’s advertisement reflects on how important it is to sit down and have a meal as a family but to also enjoy those precious moments. Progressive reflects on how people can save in this down economy. Searching for the best deal is the name of the game.

Many will find CNN to be an excellent source for reporting news, but journalists must distinguish between hard news and soft news. Hard news covers more serious news that affects a large number of people or news that has national or international significance. Soft news focuses more on news on personalities or celebrities and gossip. Most personalities and celebrities are paid for such interviews. I find that CNN is a reputable source of news, but...