This 20 credit unit examines advertising through philosophical and critical lenses. It aims to use advertising as a field of inquiry to discuss concepts like alienation, art, hedonism, myth, symbolism, and narcissism. Students will analyze advertising both historically and currently, applying insights from debates in aesthetics, human nature, and identity. Assessments include creating an advertising campaign linking products/services to class themes and essays analyzing the creative work. Students will also present ideas and lead seminar discussions. The unit intends to provide a deeper understanding of advertising as both an industry and area of social and artistic importance.