The "media" always were product placement billboards. Only it is not obvious to observers immersed in the "culture". The media used to depict smokers. They did not promote a single brand, but that way they promoted smoking. they do not promote a certain brand of suit, but they never show a president in underwear. They promote suits, for "serious" people. They promote artificial sweeteners, used in pig fattening, by putting a certain spin on each and every discussion about food or obesity. They promote themselves, last not least. Or have I ever read an article asking me NOT to buy their paper???
The "media" always were product placement billboards. Only it is not obvious to observers immersed in the "culture". The media used to depict smokers. They did not promote a single brand, but that way they promoted smoking. they do not promote a certain brand of suit, but they never show a president in underwear. They promote suits, for "serious" people. They promote artificial sweeteners, used in pig fattening, by putting a certain spin on each and every discussion about food or obesity. They promote themselves, last not least. Or have I ever read an article asking me NOT to buy their paper???