Question

Which of the following are examined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to determine whether a product advertisement is false or deceptive? (Check all that apply.)

a) Claims made
b) Testimonials
c) Pricing information
d) Aesthetic appeal

Answer 1

The FTC examines claims made, testimonials, and pricing information in advertisements to ensure they are not false or deceptive. Aesthetic appeal is not evaluated for truthfulness as it represents a subjective opinion rather than a factual claim. Claims presented as facts in advertisements must always be true.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) examines various elements of product advertisements to determine if they are false or deceptive. The aspects of advertising scrutinized by the FTC include:

• Claims made about the product's performance, which must be factual and supported by evidence.
• Testimonials, which must reflect honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences of the endorser.
• Pricing information, which must not be misleading and should accurately represent the cost to the consumer.

Aesthetic appeal, while an important aspect of advertising, is not typically examined for truthfulness as it is subjective and not a factual claim about the product.

Advertisers are allowed a certain amount of exaggeration for the general delight of using a product but any claim that is presented as a fact must be truthful. This aligns with the concept of 'Caveat emptor' or 'let the buyer beware,' reminding consumers to be vigilant about the claims made in advertisements.