When multiple brands respond to a tweet about poop, does it mark the slow death of marketing or is it a sign that brands are overdoing social media?

Back in November, school supply company Mead Five Star and toilet paper purveyor Charmin both chimed in on a conversation sparked by a tweet from @DjMikeBlau:

“Warning: Five Star College Ruled notebook paper is not a smart alternative if you run out of toilet paper”

To which Mead Five Star replied:

“@djmikeblau We agree. Five Star notebook paper is no substitute for @Charmin”

Didn’t end there, did it, @Charmin?

“meadfivestar @djmikeblau ACCCKKKK!!!! #thathadtohurt #ItsToWriteNotToWipe”

When I was actively monitoring chatter around my brands, I came across a ton of tweets and Facebook posts that were remarkable mostly in how remarkable they were. But they offered a window into a world I was glad to have no part in.

As a social media professional, I would have left it alone. As a 30-something male, I would have wanted to chime in.

So does Mead Five Star deserve kudos or shame for weighing in this topic?

(via HappyPlace.com)