Now this is intersting. (found via Lenn Pryor)

Now, this is a very intersting and thought-provoking article. But it begs the question: Is real-life product placement really so heinous? I guess it depends on your answer to the following; Is the average American consumer just a sheep waiting to be led, or can he think on his own and make informed decisions? Probably the former. But then again, maybe the sheep deserve what they get.

I know I am almost completely desensitised to traditional advertising, unless I am specifically in the market for a certain type of product (which would lead to say, paying attention to the ads in a programming magazine if I am in the hunt for a component suite). I learn about most of the products I might like to purchase via word of mouth, or something that catches my eye or ear (maybe actors planted on a bus), and if it piques my interest, I will check it out. I say, go marketers. Keep innovating. Because I make products, and the more creative people can be in trying to sell them, the happier I will be.