LoginOpinion: Weapons of mass distraction
With so much vying for our attention, we are all increasingly vulnerable
Posted 13 January 2025 | JoTS Online
Content Tags: Opinion|Technology|National
OPINION: Distraction can be a powerful tactic in public debate and policy. This commentary considers why staying focused on the real issues matters more than ever for Trading Standards.
I’m going to keep this short and to the point. I’ve recently been giving a lot of my focus to the Attention Economy. I first came into contact with the idea a few months ago, despite the term being coined in 1971 (the year after I was born) by economist Herbert A Simon. Here it is: we all have only so much attention to spend, it’s under siege from information and we have to spend it wisely.
...CTSI Member-Only Content
This content can only be accessed by logged-in members of CTSI.
Already a member? Please enter your details below. If your login is successful, the page will automatically refresh and the full content will be visible.
Why join CTSI?
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) is the representative body for UK Trading Standards and Regulatory Compliance professionals - and one of the largest, oldest (est. 1881) and most respected consumer protection organisations in the world.
As a non-profit campaigning organisation (see our Latest Campaigns), our strength, our voice and our ability to influence government, industry and the media, and shape public opinion comes directly from our membership, who are organised in an active network of branches, regions and special interest groups around the country. We are stronger together.
Interested in becoming a Member of CTSI?
Read about our various Membership Options - from Full Membership (qualified Trading Standards professionals) to Associate Membership (consumer protection supporters).
