Final answer:
The attention a model garners in advertising is due to associative learning where attractive models alongside products create positive associations, thus affecting consumer perception. This technique has been empirically tested by Cialdini, showing that it influences how a product is rated in terms of appeal and design. While individuals can have an impact on market behaviors, the influence and its effectiveness can vary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The attention a model commands in advertising is largely determined by the principles of associative learning. Advertisers often employ attractive models alongside products to foster positive associations. For example, in car commercials, the presence of an attractive model can lead potential buyers to perceive the car as more desirable. This phenomenon is supported by research conducted by Cialdini (2008), which revealed that men who saw car advertisements with models rated the cars as faster, more appealing, and better designed compared to those who viewed ads without models.
It's important to note that while a small group of people can exert influence, whether they actually do and the extent of their influence varies. In the context of markets, which are fundamental to the allocation of goods and services, the behavior of these markets, including the influences upon them, can be analyzed using supply and demand models. These models help us understand the effects of social policies on markets, such as rent control and minimum wage.