Santa Claus vs. the Marketers

Jonathan Cohen writes "Hi: Not sure if this is up your alley, but since Slashdot deals with privacy, copyright, and 'piracy' issues, I thought you might be interested...I'll quote my press release: It's Christmas Eve, and Santa Claus is grounded. After Claus Inc. hired a consulting firm in early November to re-brand Santa's image and revamp its business practices, the corporation has been on a downward spiral. The elf workforce has been downsized 70%, Santa's been given shoulder pads to make him look thinner, and even Rudolph's been eliminated for environmental reasons (nose radiation). This is just part of the free short story "Santa Claus vs. the Marketers," an adult fable about contemporary business issues."

Re:DO NOT WORSHIP SANTA CLAUS !

[Zontar The Mindless]

(I'll probably get modded into oblivion for this, but what the heck...)

While we're on the subject of subverting holidays: How about the fact that "Christmas" is the result the early Christian Church rebranding Yule (a.k.a Sunreturn)? They even changed the birthdate of Jesus (which was actually in March so far as anyone can tell for sure). Pine trees -- also co-opted from the Pagans. Santa Claus/Father Christmas -- ditto. Midwinter feasting -- etc., etc. All co-opted by (what was then) the New Order.

My take on the whole business from a Pagan perspective is that the Christians stole our holiday, now they're having it stolen from them in turn by the acolytes of Mammon. As you give, so shall you get. So don't preach at me about "the reason for the season" -- my reasons to celebrate are liable to predate yours by a millenium or more.

That being said, I hope everybody had a nice holiday, whatever you might call it. Here in Brisbane, we tossed a couple of chickens on the barbie, pigged out, and were blessed by some rain late in the afternoon that checked the heat nicely, thanks.

What I want for xmas

[Anonymous Coward]

I'll tell you what I want for xmas, I want to be able to turn off the "AD SLASHDOT" Category. The one that keeps posting these useless ADVERTISEMENTS disguised as stories.

Re:DO NOT WORSHIP SANTA CLAUS !

[CounterZer0]

'my reasons to celebrate are liable to predate yours by a milenium or more'

That's like saying 'Mine is bigger!'

Really, who cares who's relegion is older? Older doesn't always mean 'right'.

there should really be a spoiler warning

[fermion]

Kids, Santa Clause is real, and will always be able to deliver presents. He is just that good. This story was posted by a bad person who hates Santa Clause and wants to end Christmas. Do not believe it. Open your presents and enjoy your day. Remember, Santa loves you.

Thank You. S. Clause