In Alberta, there is a ban on all retail tobacco displays (power walls). Do you agree that the marketing of some products, for example those that carry health risks, should be restricted? Explain your answer and cite examples for support.

(responses will vary)
YES, I agree that the marketing of some products should be restricted. "The tobacco industry continues to target Alberta's youth through candy and fruit flavoured products, price discounts, colourful packaging, and slim-style cigarettes. For example, spit tobacco is not labelled or regulated to the same standard as other tobacco products and contains candy flavours that appeal to youth. Tobacco sales to minors' regulations are needed to help counter these objectionable marketing practices. Such laws will prevent more kids from falling prey to tobacco companies. The tobacco industry claims that it is supporting programs that reduce tobacco sales to minors. However, these programs place the primary responsibility on adolescents rather than retailers and they have been proven ineffective. For example, the signage for the Operation ID program places the onus on youth to produce ID rather than urging retailers to demand it. Alberta can do a better job of protecting kids from the predatory marketing practices of the tobacco industry. Alberta kids deserve first-class protection from the deadly and addictive consequences of tobacco use." See more at: http://www.smokefreealberta.com/issues/sales-to-minors.html#sthash.kooIh03C.dpuf
NO, I disagree that the marketing of some products should be restricted unless, of course, the product is illegal. Otherwise, in the case of legal products such as tobacco and alcohol, and even fast food, it is up to the consumer to make an informed choice about whether she or he will buy the product. We live in a free-market society where companies have the right to both advertise and sell their products. In the case of minors, it is the parents' responsibility to educate their children on making good decisions and not buying or using products, such as tobacco and alcohol, when they are underage. Once we start restrictive practices within marketing, where does it end? Will only "healthy" products be advertised? Who gets to make these decisions? Let's allow savvy consumers decide what they want to buy, or not.