1. My statement on the ethics of ads was very clearly made in the context of modern advertising, which is the topic of this HN thread. Context matters.<p>2. My assertion that advertising was historically a minuscule part of civilization and played little to no role in most people&#x27;s lives is entirely correct.<p>3. It was misleading to suggest that you were even technically correct. I never claimed advertising didn&#x27;t exist, nor would I ever. I could point to ancient sources of advertising much older than your newspaper clipping.<p>4. I already replied to you, clarifying that I believe &quot;In some cases advertising may have been a net positive but I think the future can do entirely without.&quot;