> That's what they said about patents, and so far it just means players with more money buy up more patents.

That's a bit of a strawman argument.

> ...Coca-Cola and Google spend huge amounts on advertising just to make people feel okay with the amount of control they have over everything.

I agree - some reform is necessary. The current system often exacerbates the imbalance, but completely dismissing advertising ignores its potential role in leveling the playing field for smaller players when done responsibly.