A lot of interesting comments here, but the key issue is about transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest.
A conflict of interest occurs when one's personal interests come into conflict with one's professional responsibilities - clearly there is a conflict of interest for the amateur blogger if he or she receives product to review and does not indicate that fact anywhere. Agreeing to add in paid-for content (i.e. a link or a specific wording) is just taking it a step even further.
So, conflicts of interest are best avoided. However, the general principle where they can't be avoided is that they should at least be disclosed so informed judgements can be made.
In the end, it all comes down to that old chestnut; honesty is the best policy.
Transparency is key
A lot of interesting comments here, but the key issue is about transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest.
A conflict of interest occurs when one's personal interests come into conflict with one's professional responsibilities - clearly there is a conflict of interest for the amateur blogger if he or she receives product to review and does not indicate that fact anywhere. Agreeing to add in paid-for content (i.e. a link or a specific wording) is just taking it a step even further.
So, conflicts of interest are best avoided. However, the general principle where they can't be avoided is that they should at least be disclosed so informed judgements can be made.
In the end, it all comes down to that old chestnut; honesty is the best policy.
Fore more details on this, see my article here:
http://cambridgewineblogger.blogspot.com/2011/01/on-blogger-independenc…