7 chapters across the catalog
The hosts discuss the "smirk" on the Amazon logo and other alleged subliminal messages in corporate branding, such as the "mom" hidden in the Wendy's collar. Dvorak remains skeptical of the effectiveness of these marketing tactics, while Curry suggests they have a psychological impact.
Media Susceptibility, Subliminal Advertising and Knighting Rituals
The hosts reflect on their different methods of media consumption, with one focusing on television clips and the other on internet sources. They discuss susceptibility to mainstream media "undertows" and the importance of their separate filtering processes. The segment concludes with the formal "round table" knighting ritual for Sir Matt, involving a list of humorous items and amenities.
UK Anti-Terrorist Hotline Advertising Campaign
The UK's advertising watchdog has pulled a series of radio ads for the Anti-Terrorist Hotline that encouraged citizens to report neighbors for using cash or keeping curtains closed. The hosts deconstruct the ads, noting the use of subliminal editing and the phrase "terrorist house" to instill fear and suspicion.
Subliminal Messaging and Neglect in Disaster Zones
A theory is proposed regarding the use of the word "Haiti" in brief, potentially subliminal television flashes during commercial breaks. The discussion links this to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and suggests that the global response to disasters often amounts to "genocide by neglect." Parallels are drawn to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the failure of infrastructure in the Ninth Ward.
History of Subliminal Advertising and Sensory Manipulation
The discussion explores the history of subliminal messaging in media, from 1950s cinema to modern casino environments. Steve Wynn's use of specific fragrances like coconut and banana oil at the Mirage Hotel is cited as a method to relax gamblers and increase spending. The hosts also note the use of high-speed "transition bumpers" on news networks like Fox as a form of modern brainwashing.
Subliminal Flu Vaccine Advertising, Fox Dollhouse Integration
A critique of a flu vaccine commercial aired during the television show "Dollhouse" on Fox, which allegedly used a "seamless" transition to confuse viewers. The hosts argue that the advertisement's themes of "sharing" and "memories" were intentionally integrated with the show's plot to make the audience more receptive to the marketing message.
An analysis of CNN promotional spots for Anderson Cooper 360 suggests the use of audio techniques designed to confuse the brain and deliver suggestions through separate stereo channels. In a separate media critique, a viral story claiming that fellatio reduces breast cancer risk is identified as a hoax. Despite being debunked, the story was erroneously attributed to the Associated Press and circulated through mainstream outlets like CNN.com.
