ImPerceptibility

A few months ago I received an unsolicited large envelope in the mail. I usually don’t open junk mail, it goes straight into the recycle bin. However, my Spidey senses were tingling and I opened it. Inside was an incredibly long survey and a five dollar bill. The letter made it seem like I was now obligated to fill out the survey because they sent me $5. The survey had questions about many things including my eating habits, internet usage, religion, and political leanings. I threw the survey away and put the money in my rainy day jar. It didn’t matter that they said it was anonymous, I don’t do things like that. It’s none of their business.

A few weeks later another letter came in the mail. This letter one once again made it seem like I was morally obligated to fill out the survey because they sent me money. Another copy of the survey was inside and a letter assurring my confidentiality. My name wouldn’t be associated with the data in any way.

I laughed a wry little laugh when I threw it in the recycle bin. If my name isn’t associated with the data, how did they know I hadn’t returned the survey? Can someone please explain that to me?

Anyways, if you get a large envelope in the mail from a survey company, be sure to open it before you throw it away. It just might have $5 in it.

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