Pearl,
        I wrote, last week, a question that has been disturbing me about the
long term, ie almost ideal (everybody breastfeeding/no formula in the world
is ideal),  picture.  In no way was I suggesting that we help the formula
companies.  It sends shivers down my spine at the thought.  I was meerly
trying to look past the "They shouldn't do this" to "what they should do"
scenario.  There were some very good responses that helped me formulate a
response to the formula rep who says, in all honesty (and probably
individuals aren't as unethical as the entire industry is)"If we don't
advertise, how can we compete and let mothers know that our formula is
better than brand x?"  Several responses that stood out for me were that a)
there are no significant differences between the formula's and b) the profit
they make without advertising is still tremendous.  In other words what we
want (if we have to have formula companies at all) is a totally
noncompetitive situation amongst the various brands.  Take away the
competition with breastfeeding and increase education so that breastfeeding
is unhindered.  Those women who still want to formula feed will buy whatever
is on the shelf with any help needed from their doctor.
        I think it always important to look beyond our immediate
frustrations and try to understand where exactly it is that we are going.
Sorry if I wasn't clear before.
Jennifer