Study of Consumer Knowledge & Attitudes towards Ethical Consumption

Are consumers conscious of the ethics behind the brands they choose to wear/buy/use? And if they are, does this knowledge affect their purchase decisions? A scandal regarding worker safety/working conditions in a far off country is brought to the attention of the world. Does this truly affect consumers' purchase decisions? Do consumers actively seek out information regarding their favourite brands ethical behaviour? Is there really such a thing as an ethical consumer?