Thursday, November 17, 2011

Benetton "unhate" kissing ad pulled after controversy

Benetton has a history of producing controversial ads; the latest series is no exception. The ads picture world leaders, including religious leaders, who are often at odds with each other, kissing. Apparently the one of the Pope and a prominent Imam pushed things a bit too far and the ads have now been withdrawn. There are all sorts of interesting issues here including questions about the use of these figures' images without their permission (which is what they are complaining about) and the quasi-erotic suggestions of the kiss. It's hard to imagine anyone could be offended by the "unhate" theme, but perhaps that's the most radical aspect of this ad campaign and what ultimately offends the ideologically pure.

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