Question

The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
Vance Packard’s The Hidden Persuaders alerted the public to the psychoanalytical techniques used by the advertising industry. Its premise was that advertising agencies were using depth interviews to identify hidden consumer motivations, which were then used to entice consumers to buy goods. Critics and reporters often wrongly assumed that Packard was writing mainly about subliminal advertising. Packard never mentioned the word subliminal, however, and devoted very little space to discussions of “subthreshold” effects. Instead, his views largely aligned with the notion that individuals do not always have access to their conscious thoughts and can be persuaded by supraliminal messages without their knowledge.

• A. Packard argued that advertising as a ‘hidden persuasion’ understands the hidden motivations of consumers and works at the subliminal level, on the subconscious level of the awareness of the people targeted.
• B. Packard argued that advertising as a ‘hidden persuasion’ works at the supraliminal level, wherein the people targeted are aware of being persuaded, after understanding the hidden motivations of consumers and works.
• C. Packard held that advertising as a ‘hidden persuasion’ builds on peoples’ conscious thoughts and awareness, by understanding the hidden motivations of consumers and works at the subliminal level.
• D. Packard held that advertising as a ‘hidden persuasion’ understands the hidden motivations of consumers and works at the supraliminal level, though the people targeted have no awareness of being persuaded.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The central idea in the passage revolves around Vance Packard's belief in the power of supraliminal images in influencing consumer behavior. Let’s evaluate each option in relation to this context.

Option 1: Refers to Subliminal Messages

Why it's incorrect: This option discusses subliminal messages, which are hidden or below the threshold of conscious awareness. However, Packard emphasizes supraliminal images—those that are clearly visible but still influence people without their conscious realization.

Option 2: Suggests People Are Aware

Why it's incorrect: This contradicts the passage. According to Packard, people are not consciously aware of how they are being influenced, even though the images are visible. Option 2 incorrectly assumes that individuals know they're being manipulated, which goes against the central idea.

Option 3: Mentions Subliminal Images Again

Why it's incorrect: Like Option 1, this option uses the term subliminal. The passage clearly differentiates Packard’s views from subliminal influence, emphasizing instead how visible (supraliminal) images can unconsciously impact decisions.

Option 4: Correct – People Are Not Aware

Why it's correct: This option best reflects Packard’s belief. It states that people are not aware of how visible images influence their behavior, aligning precisely with the concept of supraliminal messaging. The images are seen, but their psychological effects go unnoticed by the conscious mind.

 Final Conclusion

• Correct Answer: Option 4
• Main Concept: Supraliminal images affect people who remain unaware of their persuasive impact.
• Common Trap: Confusing "supraliminal" with "subliminal" – which is why options 1 and 3 are incorrect.