Have you ever talked to someone who works in adtech? They do sincerely believe that ads are helpful to people.
I've often wondered if there is a population of users who simply hate ads to the extent that any impression will be net negative value to the advertiser, and what mechanisms could be used to stop showing them ads. There used to be services which let you purchase all of your own ads, but I think people want something more transparent which outright removes them from the services they use.
This segment of the population absolutely exists and I would guess that it is growing. Many people in my circle block ads on every device possible. Seeing any ad is an immediate negative impression for my group of friends.
This is entirely anecdotal, but I've seen this same sentiment in many other circles and am hearing it more and more often.
Yes, I would characterize myself as such. The best products gain their exposure through word of mouth, and don't need paid advertising. Incessantly raping my eyeballs with your brand would just make me hate it even more. Especially so if it's happening on my own electronic devices against my will.
But then there are people who legitimately want to be advertised to — I know some personally.
> I think people want something more transparent which outright removes them from the services they use.
These are called ad blockers. I use them in some form on every device I own.
This says nothing about whether ads are useful or beneficial to people. Buying a product does not mean the product was not a net loss for the customer, with the classic example being cigarettes.