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While not advocating a ban on advertising and commerce, the authors of “Marketing Madness” do think it’s time for consumers to draw a line. “Like air pollution and acid rain, commercialism

has crossed the threshold into the danger zone, and it is time to consider remedial action,” they write. Their book, intended as a consumer guide, offers ways to fight back and resource

groups. Some examples: * If an ad campaign offends you, contact the manufacturer and boycott the product. * If you oppose tobacco and alcohol sponsorship of sports, write to the team. *

Support the Public Broadcasting System and National Public Radio. * Don’t just sit there if you dislike advertising run before the movie you paid to see. Boo loudly and complain to the

manager. * Talk about ads with your kids and help them understand the difference between the products being sold and the advertising hype. * If your children’s school is using Channel One,

talk to the teachers about an alternative: CNN produces a free, ad-less news program for use in schools. * Turn off the tube. “I think the best protection against commercialism for kids and

for adults is to create a rich life for yourself,” says Michael Jacobson. “Parents need to realize that real life is not found in a shopping mall. It is being involved with the church or

local community groups, it is having family activities where you do things together. “That’s how you survive this commercial lifestyle.” MORE TO READ