Coercion or "Why
we listen to what
they say." is a
non-fiction book by
Douglas Rushkoff about
psychological devices used in various forms of
media and
interaction to
influence others. It covers a very broad
spectrum and it's a
counter-culture jewel for anyone privy to
the unconscious tv conspiracy.
The book opens with
saavy salesmanship
tactics containing an
interview with a man who tugs
emotional strings on
elderly people to sell them beds and goes from there, covering everything from atmostpherics, like
malls and
theme stores, to the folly of D.B. Wells advertising agency with the
Amstel account, to
Leni Riefenstahl, to the corruption of
rave culture by
music companies and
beyond.
Rushkoff is an expert on the
media and
advertising, often serving as a
consultant for various companies. His
writings on the subject are so good, that, despite his adversarial
standpoint,
advertising instructors have begun to use his books as teaching
material. So, whether you're out to
fuck the Man, or be
the Man, if you're interested in underhanded
media tactics,
subtle messages, and
semiotics, you should enjoy this book, and learn a great
deal.