Opal Leung's Blog

   This billboard has unethical and immoral written all over it. This picture belongs to a page in the Vogue Magazine. As observed, PlayStation draws attention to its new product by expressing a racist statement of white domination over black. While the lady in white is the dominating figure, the woman of darker skin appears to be inferior and weak. In today’s society, in which racism receives much of public’s attention, this ad has made no ethical considerations. Taking advantage of racist gimmicks to accentuate the new product is wrong, especially when the company responsible is one of reputation and popularity.

As a world-class seller of entertainment products, the long term effects of this ad are significant. Children who are deeply absorbed in gaming follow PlayStation ads and commercials religiously, and this ad may instill in them the idea that racism is correct.

We have had class discussions about ethics and there is a wide range of viewpoints regarding the issue. Some may argue that this is simply a gimmick or promotion tactic, but where should the line be drawn? Can we step on others’ shoulders and argue that it has no bad intentions?