Fine Print
Why is fine print so
fine? If an advertisement, statement, or contract has fine print, it is
often about what they don't want you to know. Some print is so small it
can't be read with average eyesight. To not read this text, even if you
must get a magnifying glass or enquire, could result in surprise,
disappointment or worse.
Fine print can be used to
protect the seller of the product, to reduce the cost of service
against consumers' complaints. It can also be use to sell the customer
something which is less than expected or costs more than is clearly
indicated. This stuff is written with profit in mind.
There are lots of example
uses of small print.
Communication services
only $24.95 - but the small print clarifies
After six months charges
are $36.95
Term deposit 5.25% 3 Year
Rate* - not really, read the small print
5.25% 3rdYear Rate*-
effective yearly rate 3.16%
The uses are so varied
and are common:
* applies to 3 yr
contract . . .
* other conditions may
apply . . .
* assumes no
responsibility . . .
Oxymoronic credit
conditions notice: "IMPORTANT INFORFORMATION ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT".
The heading is readable.
The rest of the print on the back of my credit card statement is small
but is also faded and difficult to read. Fuzzing
up what you need to know – not very nice!
“To know what is right
and not do it is the worst cowardice.” Confucius
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return Greed
Profit Consumerism
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