One of the local news stations has a new method of "stealth" advertising, called "Consult with a pro". The idea is somewhat sound. Viewers write in with a question, and a professional in that area answers the question.
But it really isn't any kind of an advice service, so much as it's a new method of advertising. The professionals are all local businessment who plug thier business as a part of their answer. Sometimes the questions are laughably bad:
Q: Why did you open [business name]?
A: All the other business are crooks whos employess are paid comissions. We pay a salary.
Sometimes the advice seems like it might be genuinely helpful:
Q: When can orthodontal treatment first begin?
A: Ideally a child can be referred for treatment between the ages of 5 and 8. Preventive measures taken at this age can prevent more serious problems later on. (advice given by an orthodontist).
So I have insomnia tonight, and I'm typing up a journal entry about it, and a spot comes on:
Q: When is a child too young for chiropractic treatment?
A: It's never too soon for chiropractic treatment. Childbirth is one of the most traumatic experiences in a person's life, so it's important to get your newborn in as soon as possible. (by a chiropractor, of course).
I don't know whether
or
is more appropriate. Would anyone seriously take a newborn to a chiropractor? There are these doctors who specialize in the treatment of children, called pediatricians, who might be a better choice.
I don't know which is worse, that the news division is allowing advertising disguised as news, or that they're alllowing advice like this to be given. What next, a consultation with a psychic? Actually, I'd take my baby to a psychic before I would a chiropractor.