6/30/2003: Deceptive ads

But see, it's not the same as ripping ads out of a magazine. It's the same as ripping ads out of a free magazine. And even then, at least you kinda glance at it.

I don't like ads either, but let's not make them something they're not. On the web, you're getting content for free. You're free to block the ads, too, but when that site isn't making enough revenue to stay afloat, understand that <b>this is partly your fault</b>.

Personally, I prefer sites that have ads but they can be removed with a reasonable subscription ($10-25/year is reasonable). Popup ads are a no-go, and I obviously have those blocked. But in-line ads, I don't mind as much. These places have to support themselves somehow, and if it's ads, okay. I even click them sometimes, and on a very rare occasion I'll buy something.

I wouldn't say that it's wrong to block all ads, but you may be doing yourself a disservice by doing so.