One could argue the whole distinguishing feature of modern for-profit organizations is that they are marketing entities with a side of innovation. Markets are

One could argue the whole distinguishing feature of modern for-profit organizations is that they are marketing entities with a side of innovation. Markets aren't created by God, they're created by marketers (or entrepreneurs acting as marketers). Advertising (and broadcast media in general) seems to be an amplifier of existing beliefs or desires. I agree there's little statistical or scientific proof it can convince people of something the opposite to something they already believe -- though there's centuries of evidence that people CAN be sold to. Marketing itself is a much broader function that also includes the supply-side: understanding the customer, and shaping the customer's complete experience with the company. Thus why it also includes branding, segmentation, and even product design / quality.