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Thanks to @metarand for pointing out this great video.

A very thought provoking piece, that does reinforce the notion that branding was created by advertising agencies to sell stuff.

Selling is not bad - after all, sales drive revenue, and revenue should become profit (in a well run business), and profits; well directed, ultimately keep a capitalist society operating.  However, is this the only reason we have brands.  We talk about brands having an emotional connection with consumers; but why?

Watching this video further reinforces for me what a truly social brand is (thanks to Martin Cahill for reminding me of this) - it is a brand you would want to be friends with?

What are all the traits of your good friends...which brands have these same traits?