It's hard to write this without sounding more self-righteous than usual.I have no moral objection to banner ads here. I don't even think we have to worry about getting the right advertisers, they'll be there if we want them. By that I mean, no Nike types. Social conscience in place we'll get music merchants, environmental stuff and so on...this is not my area of expertise obviously...But if one looks at all the advertisers in the music press (Dirty Linen to Acoustic Guitar, there's scores of them), some must be interested in a billboard on the outskirts of Mudcatville.
I've watched most of the televised Toronto Maple Leaf games this year and I can't think of a single advertiser on the boards. It must be subliminal. Though I might have noticed an ad for snow shovels. And that's my point, we'll notice relevant ads and dismiss ads for things which don't interest us.
Many of us are living pretty close to the poverty line these days and are still willing to send money. I personally would like to see some of the big business we support through purchases return the favour.
Peace. Mooh.