Designing Addiction
Picture yourself as a young man looking for new ways to reflect your identity and masculinity. The year is 1954, Leo Burnett, a famous advertising man, made this pursuit much easier with the introduction of the iconic Marlboro Man.
With an aura of allure and independence, the Marlboro Man emerged as the embodiment of masculinity. His cowboy hat, confident demeanor, and cigarette in hand symbolized the freedom to roam and the ability to conquer any challenge. The powerful Marlboro Man campaign appealed to the desires of young male smokers, offering them a chance to embrace an identity that spoke to the essence of the American West - a land of endless possibilities and unyielding individuality.
The campaign boosted sales to an all-time high, making Marlboro the leading cigarette brand for male smokers, and it became one of the best-selling cigarette brands in the world.
Fast forward to the present day, and picture yourself among a group of kids constantly seeking a sense of belonging and acceptance. In this vibrant social scene, the Hush Bar Vapers play their part, enticing them with sleek and colorful designs that promise a sense of camaraderie and inclusion. The Hush Bar Vapers, like the Marlboro Man before them, leverage the desires of their audience, tapping into the longing for unity and a place to belong.
Hush bars are Sleek, vibrant, and subtly enticing, these designs camouflage the dangers within.
For both the Marlboro Man and Hush Bar Vapers, their allure lies in the genuine needs and aspirations of their target audience. They offer a means to connect with the values and ideals of their time, a way to belong and express oneself amidst the changing tides of society.
Yet, beneath these captivating exteriors, the consequences of killer design linger. The Marlboro Man's campaign obscured the detrimental health effects of smoking, while the Hush Bar Vapers' colorful allure may veil the addictive nature of vaping. Young individuals, seeking to embrace an identity or find their tribe, may unknowingly fall into the trap of addiction, facing potential health risks in their pursuit of belonging.
Every designer should know that we have the power to shape the world for the better. Let's take inspiration from history and learn from the mistakes of the past. It's time to prioritize ethical design practices and consider the long-term consequences of our creations.
Do these values resonate with you?
Get in touch and let's collaborate to create meaningful change together. You can also explore my design work here.
