I don't disagree with your thoughts on the typical mindset but I'm not sure all the blame can be laid at the feet at marketers (disclaimer: I am one).
To the best of my knowledge, the boom in SUV popularity started in the early to mid 90's. There was a perception, with perhaps a kernal of truth, that SUV's were safer than cars. At the time cars were not held to the standard they are today and so mass usually was viewed as the winner in an accident. The higher view also helped pull in traditional sedan drivers, like short women, and helped them feel "empowered". As the market exploded, SUV's became more car like. Now the perception is that you'd have to have a reason to choose a sedan over an SUV (and some of that I can understand with some crossovers getting over 30 MPG, being basically car-based, and similar in price to sedans). I'd say that yes, partly marketers are driving the behavior, but they are more likely just exploiting it (or in other words... doing business). To be honest I lay most of the blame on a lack of self-awareness of the owner. They are unwilling or unable to decide for themselves true need vs. desire, and their desire vs. desire perpetuated by marketing, neighbors, colleagues, etc. If there wasn't a market, there wouldn't be SUV's. Personally, I'd love to see all vehicles decrease in size and weight, because the advantages are obvious.
Just my $.02.