Final answer:
Advertisements influence people through psychological tactics that affect behavior and decision-making, such as associative learning, bandwagon effects, and intermittent reinforcement. The media often presents content tailored to maintain viewer engagement, leading to 'filter bubbles'. Even negative ads in political campaigns can be more memorable and persuasive than positive ones.
Step-by-step explanation:
Advertisements can influence people despite being disliked because they employ psychological tactics that affect human behavior and decision-making. Through a variety of means such as associative learning, intermittent reinforcement, and the bandwagon effect, advertising manipulates the preferences and choices of individuals. Associative learning, for instance, relates desirable qualities to a product by using attractive imagery or associations. Intermittent reinforcement, akin to the unpredictability of winning at a casino game, keeps consumers engaged and coming back for more. Additionally, presenting the impression that a product is widely popular can compel others to conform and purchase it.
Moreover, the media's dependency on advertising revenues results in content that often prioritizes engagement over balanced reporting, leading to 'filter bubbles' where people are exposed to information that aligns with their existing beliefs. The overarching goal for advertisers is to maintain consumer engagement and brand recognition, which they achieve by synergistic advertising across multiple platforms. Negative advertisements in political campaigns are another example of adverts' powerful influence; although they may be disliked, the intense emotional response they trigger can be more memorable and persuasive than positive ads.