Criticisms of marketing

[Extract] In this chapter we will discuss the major generic criticism of marketing, including: •fostering of materialism and unsustainable consumption •deception, including 'greenwashing' and manipulation •the (mis)use of corporate social responsibility as a mechanism to enhance corporate reputations We will also examine the specific ethical issues that may arise in developing marketing strategies and tactics, including: •product design, safety, packaging, labelling •market research •promotional activity, including both traditional forms of marketing communications and newer hybrid forms such as product placements, as well as ethical issues in public relations and selling activity We will conclude the chapter with a discussion of how marketers should address these criticisms and then discuss what concepts such as ethical marketing involve