When economists and historians consider the ways in which free markets and corporations have dramatically improved our standard of living, they typically ignore the contributions of the advertising industry. And many people today regard advertisements as an annoyance, something to be avoided or skipped whenever possible. But, says Tim Chermak, these people are missing one of the telltale signs and causes of human progress and prosperity.

In this talk, Chermak will take a philosophical and historical perspective on advertising, asking: What exactly is this thing? Where and when did it originate—and why? What is its relationship to freedom, capitalism, and human flourishing? How does it relate to free will? What is its moral status? And, most importantly, what’s in it for you?