While some people are ok with not being in controlof what they see, many people (myself included) would like to control which ads they and their friends see on social networks. I would like to be able to choose the ads that come to me, instead of have some system serve ads to me based on what it sees in my profile (though this could work).

Obviously, there’s a risk that when advertisers give consumers control they will choose not to see any ads. But I think a large percentage of us wouldn’t mind seeing relevant content and ads. For example, I’d love to be shown specials from restaurants and bars in my area, discounts on food at grocery stores, be alerted when Nike comes out with a new basketball shoe, etc.

This definitely seems possible, but it’s just a matter of advertisers giving up the control–ultimately, I would think this would lead to much better response rates and consideration for brands, since people get to self-select what they want. It’s ok to be bombarded with information, if it’s good/relevant information that the person is seeking out.

Apologies for the long comment, but that’s just what I’ve been thinking about today.