Final answer:
Advertising can be socially harmful when it contains false or misleading information, perpetuates harmful stereotypes, or manipulates people's emotions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Advertising can potentially be socially harmful under certain conditions. One condition is when advertising contains false or misleading information that could deceive consumers. For example, if a product is advertised with exaggerated claims that are not true, it can mislead people into buying a product that does not deliver the promised benefits.
Another condition is when advertising perpetuates harmful stereotypes or promotes unhealthy behaviors. For instance, if an advertisement promotes unrealistic beauty standards or encourages excessive consumption of unhealthy products, it can have negative effects on individuals and society.
Lastly, advertising can be socially harmful when it manipulates people's emotions or exploits their vulnerabilities. This can be seen in manipulative advertising techniques that use fear, guilt, or other emotions to persuade people to make a purchase.