We've definitely covered a lot of material over the last semester. Looking back, I think that the concept I will most likely remember is classical conditioning.
Like most people I'm sure, I had heard of Pavlov previous to taking this course; it wasn't until we learned about this concept that I realized just how pervasive classical conditioning is in everyday life. Perhaps one of the most obvious ways in which classical conditioning is utilized is in advertising (which just so happens to be my major).
Advertising relies heavily on the use of classical conditioning to associate products with certain thoughts and emotions, demonstrating just how powerful our emotions are in affecting our behavior.
It explains why ads typically show attractive models with minimal clothing - despite the fact that the ad may be for a clothing store.
Yet tactics like this must be successful, because it's a technique that is repeated over and over. This technique has added depth to the way in which I analyze and understand how advertising works.
Now we won't be fooled by nearly naked models selling what little clothing they are wearing. Or...at least we won't be fooled consciously. Maybe that's why so many people by Abercrombie and Fitch clothing?
It's true that advertising uses classical conditioning and it seems like any forms of advertisement tries to use this principle. Will knowing this affect our purchases in the future? Although I'd like to think so, I haven't noticed any difference when I see many advertisements after learning this principle.
I think that psychology will definitely prove to be very pervasive in your marketing major! Making the connection between textbook and real life is what really helps us learn. Hopefully from now on we can be more informed & aware buyers!