Where does product placement fit into discussions of subliminal advertising?
In line with the broader definition of subliminal advertising noted in Question 1, many commentators consider product placement a form of subliminal presentation. This position is held simply because the products tend to go unnoticed when they are presented on TV or move screens. However, simply focusing attention on the relevant aspect of the programme indicates that the products are very far from being presented in a subliminal manner if one applies the more rigorous definition used by psychologists. Product placement generally leads to the presentation or use of products in films or TV programmes. The products are not disguised in any way, nor are they intended to be completely overlooked. However, as the products are presented in such a manner that little or no conscious attention is paid to them – they are simply part of the fantasy world that is being observed – any information relating to them may be processed unconsciously. The unconscious processing of information should not b
