Philip Morris Advertisement
A monument to bad taste? You bet. Take for example the ad touting the economic force of the “American smoker.”
Smokers are an economic force for sure. Take note, please.
- The billions of dollars in subsidies to tobacco growers paid out of taxes, about half of which is paid for by nonsmokers.
- Wages of firemen putting out fires started by people smoking in bed or flipping lighted butts out of car windows.
- Medical costs. A good basic income for physicians and hospitals.
- Sign painters making a bit of extra income with “No Smoking” etc. signs.
- Aromatic spray can manufacturers that hotels couldn’t get along without.
- Attorney fees. Let’s not forget the lawyers, pro or con, who will pocket substantial bucks no matter who wins or loses.
Enough said?
DOUGLAS PARMENTIER JR.
Newport Beach
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
