The Onion Article Analysis

668 Words2 Pages

“Advertising may be described as the science of arresting the human intelligence long enough to get money from it.” An article by The Onion, a news satire organization, humorously reveals the sly strategies used by companies to sell their products. The article introduces a “brand new, cutting edge” product: The MagnaSoles, shoe inserts that will supposedly change your life forever. (Transition) The article’s satirical nature pokes fun at how companies market their products and aids in exposing the gulibility of consumers, the exaggeration of facts and use of scientific language, and the power of testimony in today’s advertising. The flippant structure of the article brings to light how companies utilize consumer gullibility to sell their products. Towards the beginning of the article, the author states that MagnaSoles will “heal your entire body as you walk.” This “cure-all” (quotes needed?) description lures consumers by not only giving them their pain solution, but also solving many more of their problems as well. Companies today often add extras to heighten the appeal of their products, giving the consumer multiple reasons their product is worth-while. Also, the low price offers “a welcoming alternative to expensive, effective forms of tradtional medicine” used to treat foot pain. The low cost draws consumers due to the frugal attitudes in today’s economy, but the article reveals the ineffectiveness of the product despite this amazing deal. The credulous nature of customers allows companies to distract them from the truth by introducing an almost unbelievable bargain. Obviously, $19.95 is not enough to create an antidote to cure the entire body, so the author mocks the naivety of the product’s audience. Finally, the author end... ... middle of paper ... ...tion. Finally, the article closes with a testimony from a consumer who, “after wearing MagnaSoles for seven weeks,” noticed a decrease of pain in her hurt ankle. But, this presents incongruity with another statement claiming the product was “released less than a week ago.” Although testimonies provide confidence for the consumer, they are often not backed with proven information and possess inconruities. The article jocolsely exposes how companies market products to consumers, exploiting the gulibility of consumers, the exaggeration of facts and use of scientific language, and the power of testimony. The article effectively shows how “scientific-sounding” advertisements can attract customers and distill a false-sense of reliability in the product. The article also includes a multitude of puns, further mocking the seriousness of advertisements in today’s marketing

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