Archetypal Symbolism and Color in Online Educational Advertising: Perceived Usefulness and Ethical Reflections on Neuromarketing among IT Professionals

This study investigates how archetypal symbolism and color schemes used in online educational advertising affect perceptions of training usefulness and the ethical acceptability of neuromarketing among IT professionals. Drawing on theoretical foundations from Jungian archetypes, visual perception psychology, and consumer neuroscience, the research employs a diagnostic survey method with a custom-designed questionnaire. The sample comprises 208 respondents working in digital environments such as IT, e-learning, and graphic design. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Pearson correlations, reveal that while saturated colors (red, blue) evoke stronger emotions, their effectiveness depends heavily on symbolic congruence and emotional tone. Archetypal images enhance perceived value only when aligned with the developmental aspirations of participants. Moreover, a higher level of neuromarketing awareness correlates with increased ethical scrutiny and motivation for personal development. The study confirms that the perceived usefulness of training is positively linked to the acceptance of symbolic–visual communication, provided it respects the aesthetic and value expectations of the audience. The findings highlight the need for ethically aware, visually intelligent design in digital education campaigns. Implications are discussed for online course designers, educational marketers, and scholars interested in the intersection of pedagogy, technology, and unconscious influence.