A balanced portrait of the role of advertising in society today. Presenting a range of perspectives on advertising in a global society, this Second Edition of Controversies in Contemporary Advertising examines economic, political, social, and ethical perspectives and covers a number of topics including stereotyping, controversial products, consumer culture, and new technology.

The book is divided equally between macro and micro issues, providing a balanced portrait of the role advertising has in society. Author Kim Bartel Sheehan's work recognizes the plurality of opinions towards advertising, encouraging readers to obtain a critical perspective on advertising issues while forming and analyzing their own judgments.