Deceptive ‘Infomercials’
Given that my profession--public relations--has a reputation for “deceiving” the public, it may be surprising that I am disgusted by TV “infomercials” (“Amazing Discovery: These Shows Are Ads” by Howard Rosenberg, March 12).
Every one of these programs--whether it sells hair-loss cure-alls or sunglasses that enables one to see behind himself (wow, what a necessary product!)--uses phases such as “our researchers” or “leading medical authorities” without substantiation and rebuttal.
When a print ad closely resembles a news article, the notice “Paid Advertisement” is clearly visible. Why don’t infomercials have “Paid Advertisement” running constantly--or frequently--across the bottom of the screen?
Such notices at the beginning and end of each program are not enough, because many viewers tune in late or cut out early.
RICHARD BORDEN, Moorpark
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