This image was lost some time after publication.

You thought the prospect ofcorporations invading your Facebook news feed was bad? Our fascination with social networks has spawned a new breed of marketers hoping to sucker us in with social media. Jockey, the undergarments brand, is currently staging an underwear dance party, which asks users to upload a brief clip ... um, rather, video shorts ... no ... make that a filmic demonstration of them dancing in their 'roos for a chance to win $5,000. Dove's hosting a "Campaign For Real Beauty," which offers self-esteem tips to young girls and women. And Pepperidge Farm is trying to get women to connect via cookies with artofthecookie.com, which hired "lifestyle expert" Sally Horchow to provide tips that will help you connect with friends: "Brands are realizing they have to do a lot more than making something that tastes good. Connecting on a personal level with people makes your life better." That's just what we need, brands as helpful friends looking out for our wallets.