This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. What are we doing to ourselves when we tell ourselves constantly - through the medium of ever-more pervasive advertising - that we are Consumers? And what would it look like to put all the creativity that currently goes into that, into involving people in society as Citizens? Jon spent a decade working at big name ad agencies, on some of the world's biggest brands, all the while asking deeper and deeper questions about the role of his industry in society. His conclusions will shock and inspire you. About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)