This underscores the importance of advertising. It is the discipline, that when effectively carried out, can make things happen faster in the economy and society.
Advertising is about showing people how opportunities connect to their values, interests and needs.
Today's New York Times column by economist Thomas L. Friedman points to the importance of creativity in business. He also speaks to the value of having an education that teaches you how to develop new ideas or recombine existing technologies.
This is what the best advertising professionals have always done. They "resist the usual" to envision a future, conveying to others how their lives can be different and better.
Advertising programs in journalism schools play a critical role preparing young people to succeed in business. Premised on the critical thinking skills of the liberal arts, the advertising curriculum focuses on concepts and methods to promote original thinking leading to productive solutions for business problems and opportunities.
This foundational perspective in the liberal arts is a vital distinction from a "business as usual" education. Success, even survival, is premised on always going forward.
Educated advertising professionals take us there.
