The Impact of Ambiguity on Actions and Consequences - Essay Example

When there is an ambiguity in one’s words or intentions, they can be interpreted by people in more than one way. It may often lead to misjudgment of one’s intentions.

            Furthermore, there are different opinions for various people regarding the impact of ambiguity on actions and thoughts. While many people view it as a hindering factor in conveying exact information, some others view it as an essential tool to deal with people from different backgrounds and varying perceptions. It seems that the context for which ambiguity is expressed is the main deciding factor in its impact. Its impact should be judged on the presumed results of that expression.

If we consider the advertising industry, people often feel that the nature of advertising in the postmodern era needs ambiguous presentation at times to attract a multitude of audiences. They feel that ambiguous advertising can attract more audiences while satisfying orthodox thinkers about the presentation nature of a product or service. For example, if we consider the marketing of a product that is treated as unconventional, ambiguous advertising can serve two purposes. Firstly, a viewer can get impressed by the appealing presentation of the product and be more inclined towards acquiring the product (The Ambiguity of Advertising, 2008). Secondly, this nature helps in attracting multiple audiences with different perceptions (The Ambiguity of Advertising, 2008). It helps the respective company and/or advertising agencies to defend their marketing strategy in case of any controversies. Moreover, the ambiguous presentation aids in attracting a vast audience with minimal and intelligent investment.

However, this attitude may sometimes backfire with its enormous negative consequences (The Ambiguity of Advertising, 2008). The reasons for it can be related to the same factors that hill attracting more customers. Lack of clarity in advertising the intended benefits of a product or service leads to confusion for the audience about whether or not to opt for its service. Also, people who misinterpret or identify exactly the actual purpose of the advertisement may feel reluctant to acquire it.

With the advancements in technologies and the change of various dimensions in the world, the level of ambiguity at various levels has increased dramatically over the years (Alessandra, 2001). This nature has been evident from a person’s daily activities to the most crucial thoughts and decisions at diplomatic areas, and other national and international issues. It may lead to either positive or negative contexts depending on the situation.

Some feel it is an essential criterion to reserve the choice of manipulating the final outcome of an idea. For, the range of interpretations that emerge from this ambiguity may give leeway for possible interpretations in times of uncertainty over intended actions. On the other side, people may get frustrated due to the lack of clarity that arises from confusion 9Alessandra, 2001).