Ethical deployment of cognitive biases in marketing a framework for responsible influence

Mohammad Shahidul  Islam; Fariba  Azizzadeh; Muhammad  Ali

doi:10.59400/apr.v3i2.1363

Mohammad Shahidul Islam BRAC Business School, BRAC University, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
Fariba Azizzadeh Independent Researcher, Vienna 1050, Austria
Muhammad Ali Faculty of Finance and Administrative Sciences, Al Madinah International University, Kuala Lumpur 57100, Malaysia

Ariticle ID: 1363

115 Views, 60 PDF Downloads

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/apr.v3i2.1363

Keywords: cognitive biases; ethical marketing; consumer behavior; psychological influence; marketing ethics; consumer autonomy

Abstract

This paper examines the intersection of cognitive biases and ethical marketing practices, highlighting how psychological principles can influence consumer behavior within ethical boundaries. Cognitive biases such as scarcity bias, authority bias, the halo effect, and confirmation bias significantly shape consumer perceptions and decisions. However, their application in marketing raises complex ethical concerns, particularly regarding consumer autonomy and the potential for manipulation. This study proposes a conceptual framework that integrates ethical guidelines with marketing strategies that utilize cognitive biases. Through a comprehensive literature review and theoretical analysis, this paper outlines the implications of these biases in marketing, develops a set of ethical guidelines, and discusses the broader impacts on consumer trust and brand integrity. The findings give marketers practical insights for ethically harnessing cognitive biases, ensuring that marketing practices drive business success and maintain consumer respect and loyalty.

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