Apple as an Effective Brand

Apple has emerged as the leader in the consumer technology business in the 21st century.  This is due in large part to its effective marketing strategy that positions Apple products as superior to all others.  Apple avertisements are simple and effectively have little in the way of jaw dropping visuals.  Any Apple advertisement will contain very similar elements: white background, plain black text and the product featured prominently. 

Many ads for other consumer goods companies have different visuals for each product, however Apple has a single format for each product, be it computer, tablet or phone.  This advertising template has allowed Apple to create a single image for all of their products.  Their target market percieves all Apple products as a generic and superior brand to others. 

Many people I know have Mac computers, iPhones, and iPods.  They percieve differing Apple products as a single common entity.  They may have a good experience with an Apple computer and would like similar qualities out of their phone as well.  Apple products however, have a higher price tag than other similarly capable products.

Do consumers seek a common, generic experience in their products so much that they are willing to pay a premium over other similar offerings in order to get it?  Also, does Apple's single template marketing help to reinforce this idea of a generic experience?

Self Regulation vs Government

I believe that self- regulation is the most effective way of regulating businesses.  Self regulation does not rely on any committee or bureau.  It is based on our own morals and values and where we choose to spend our money.  Self regulation depends on our own education and knowledge of a product, service or business. If you want to eat healthy you don't spend your money at McDonald's.  If you do not care about your health and choose to eat McDonald's should the government forbid you from eating it? 

Freedom of choice is a basic right and our own personal knowledge should dictate our decisions. I do not believe that the government knows best or has our best interests in mind.  Further government regulation is an attempt to remove choice from the citizens.  How many committees and bureaus do we need?

If you don't agree with a company's marketing strategy or their product don't support them with your business.  I don't agree with WalMart's ability to sell slave-labor products at lower than material costs therefore I don't spend my money there.  If you want to buy a plastic fish that sings from WalMart go right ahead.  Not my problem nor my concern.  I regulated my self from buying that wonderful product.

 If government regulation looked out for our best interests then why would a product such as cigarettes and tobacco in general be allowed to be marketed, sold and profited on when it is well known to cause cancer?