I got an email from eBay today. The subject line was "don't disappoint them - get the hottest toys".

I understand that marketers want to tap into emotions to motivate people to buy. And that's okay.

Up to a point.

Let's make eBay's message a little more explicit: "If you don't buy everything your kids want through eBay, you're a deadbeat parent and a jerk." Is that not exactly what they're trying to make you feel like if you don't respond?

Of course, a headline like that wouldn't sell much. So instead they say "don't disappoint them - get the hottest toys".

Sorry eBay. I understood your implication. And I find it offensive.

Bad form.