For Aron: Google Alert Links

Aron asked: It seems more and more that my google alerts on space settlement link to sites the promote the idea of the world ending in 2012. Will this hurt the pro-space habitation movement and, if so, how do we minimise the damage?

I don't think it matters.

I don't think wondering if the world will end in 2012 precludes supporting space exploration/habitation and vice versa. Unless someone were interested in end of the world theories, they're unlikely to follow the link. I doubt anything they find will sway their opinion on the subject one way or the other.

If someone is convinced the world will end, well, I doubt the link will change their minds either. If they support space habitation, too, again, I don't see how that changes things.

Is it a little out of the science and technology realm you're going for? Yes. But I don't know that it hurts. People who are into the science and technology aspect are unlikely to follow the links anyway and ignore the ad type stuff as a matter of course (At least, I do.).

In either case, I doubt it's having much impact on the people you want to reach.

However, I'm not a marketing expert. This is all just my opinion.

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For Aron: Affiliates

Aron said: I'm trying out an affiliate program, but I feel like a scumbag for doing it. What do you think of blogs which use affiliate programs and is there an honest way to include affiliate links.

Wow, you may have figured out a way to stump me. I have no idea. In fact, I have only a vague idea of what an affiliate is.

If the affiliate is an organization you're pleased with, proud to be associated with, I wouldn't worry about any guilt. By all means, promote it.

If it's more of an ad thing, I wouldn't be ashamed of that either. Be cognizant to ensure ads aren't run that offend you or preach against your own views, but, other than that, I wouldn't worry about it. There's nothing wrong with making a little on your blog.

I have no objection to blogs who do either method, profit or support for organizations they admire. In the end, the blog should reflect who you are and your priorities. Do what works for you, and let the chips fall where they may.

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