Did you happen to pick up on the irony of these statements in light of who we recently elected as President? Symbols that depict policy, campaign slogans, posters with powerful brand images, theme music, massive big stage star studded shows with fireworks.. marketing is the core tenant of the current president and his administration. I think you're right, the country is too easily brainwashed by this stuff.
Great point. Brand Obama is arguably the most successful in recent memory. I've seen graphic designers dissect his campaign logo, with the flag and the sunrise, calling it one of the most effective images they have ever seen. He has many talented people on his side -- has had them since the beginning.
Now, it is fair to be
deeply suspicious of Brand Obama. Those people watch Fox News.
Many people also recognized the brand, and still liked what they saw behind it. There is substance there, believe it or not. Whether it is the right mix of qualities for this country at this time, whether it will amount to effective leadership in the end, it is too early to tell.
One aspect of the branding is something I do cheer for, I admit. I think it is incredibly valuable, from a cultural standpoint, to so prominently see the "brand" of an intact, happy family with daughters who are clearly being raised very well. It is a model that can be admired and emulated by all families with children, but in particular African-American families. However he does as president, I think his family's presence on the world stage can do some societal good. Perhaps that is naive and idealistic -- but really, there is no more ideal role model for this sort of thing than the so-called leader of the free world.
