This makes the false assumption that if people didn't block ads, they would make purchases from ads just like people who don't in the first place. That is the only way they can justify a loss of revenue.

I agree...Like when Avatar was pirated out the wazoo, still it made boat loads of money. And like you, I own all that jolly good stuff as well. And at the end of the day, I decide what shows up in my browser,not some money grabbing,snooping corporation. When I had a tv,I muted ads and ignored them since I was a kid because I found then annoying,irritating and demeaning. At the end of the day,I do not want,or need some company telling me to buy bla bla to be happy. And think how the price of stuff would change if the cost of the ad was not included in the price of the product. Anyway,they need to realize the computer user is in charge and we are not here to buy their stuff.

though. It's forcing brands to create ads that people want to see,

I don't want to see ads.. Any ads.