iBuy

Spotted in today's SMH, a full page advertisement by a certain tobacco giant. As a result of the federal government's decision to make it illegal for cigarette packaging to carry any sort of marketing attractiveness, understandably these companies that sell their awful product by means of hoodwinking their customers with fantasy are none to pleased. But the question is, do they have a very valid point?

Rightious attacks on cigarette companies is the easiest game in town. These organisations could not be less desirable to the vile middle class even if they were to hand their durrys out to children in school playgrounds. Politicians, always keen to make an easy score to balance out their other myriad inabilities, know a wounded prey when they smell it and have little hesitation simulating moral superiority for our viewing pleasure and hopefully some cheap votes when needed.

The art of marketing to me is utterly repulsive. A technique whereby the details and realities of a product or service are camoflaged by a shroud of falsehood and scam. Imagine how many McDonalds burgers would be sold if the only way they could promote them is by advising us of their existence and the ingredients. How many cars would Holden sell if they actually detailed the true cost and effort of owning one? Would Apple have sold millions of iPads without the annoying jingles and lineups outside their glass encrusted stores?

Branding in itself is considered a highly valuable intellectual property. It is here to stay and is considered a valid tool of commerce. The Australian government seems to be happy to allow some pretty awful products to continue their disgusting trade without interference in the use of branding and marketing. It is hypocrisy to single out the tobacco industry.

Alcoholic beverage industry, you're next!