In today's consumer-driven society, the high sales of popular goods are often attributed to the power of advertising rather than the genuine needs of the society. I largely agree with this statement, as advertising tends to create artificial needs and desires that may not align with actual societal requirements.

Firstly, advertising has the profound ability to influence consumer behavior by creating a perceived need for products that may not be necessary. Companies invest significant resources in market research to craft persuasive campaigns that appeal to emotions and desires. For instance, advertisements for the latest smartphones often emphasize features that, while innovative, are not essential to the average user's needs. The pressure to own the latest model is driven more by the allure of cutting-edge technology portrayed in ads rather than a fundamental need for its functionalities.

Secondly, advertising often exploits social and cultural trends to drive sales. This is evident in the fashion industry, where trends are rapidly changing due to effective marketing strategies. Consumers are frequently led to believe that purchasing new clothing lines is crucial to maintaining social status or self-esteem, even though their existing wardrobe suffices. This cycle of consumption is propelled by advertisements that associate personal success with the acquisition of new products.

However, it is important to note that not all consumer goods sales are solely influenced by advertising. Some products, like basic commodities and essential services, are sold primarily based on genuine need rather than promotional efforts.

In conclusion, while advertising undoubtedly plays a significant role in driving the sales of consumer goods, it often does so by creating perceived needs rather than addressing the real necessities of society. This marketing-driven consumption pattern highlights the powerful influence advertising holds over consumer behavior.