You've Got My Number, Why Don't You Lose It?
While some people view telemarketing as an invasion of privacy, I believe it is the most visible example of how business can corrupt civil society. When someone calls me to subscribe to a newspaper, or change long-distance companies, its not only annoying, but an insult to my intelligence. What these people (not the people making the call; they're just doing their job, no matter how despicable it is) are essentially saying to me is, "Since you lack the intelligence, Mr. so-and-so, to do actual research into the products and services you buy, we're going to pitch a product or service to you, to help you make up your mind". What a glorious time we live in, when my future desires--not even yet realized by me--can be predicted by direct marketers! How amazing that desire for something totally unnecessary can be manufactured by a simple telephone call (or email)!
All sarcasm aside, folks, let me point you to the news at hand, a House-drafted national 'Do Not Call' list, that provides severe financial penalties for telemarketers that violate the soon-to-be law. Its not a long article so you can read the details yourself. I'd like to personally thank our government for acknowledging our dignity and intelligence as human beings. Where can I sign up?