Final answer:
True, even rational adults can be swayed by sophisticated ad pitches and make unnecessary purchases, despite FTC oversight and the principle of 'Caveat emptor' or 'let the buyer beware.'
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that even rational adults often fail to cast a suspicious eye to sophisticated ad pitches and end up making frivolous purchases. This can occur despite the efforts of regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that check factual claims about a product's performance. Although the FTC regulates that claims presented as facts in advertising must be true, persuasive language and images that are exaggerated or ambiguous are still allowed. The adage Caveat emptor, meaning "let the buyer beware," suggests that consumers should maintain a healthy skepticism towards advertising pitches.
In consideration of crafted advertising messages, consumers are encouraged to think critically and apply a degree of healthy skepticism. Advertisers often leverage the persuasive power of the bandwagon fallacy and use strategies to appeal to the emotions and desires of the public. Therefore, even rational adults are susceptible to making purchases under the influence of sophisticated advertising, sometimes leading to decisions that may not align with their genuine needs or preferences.