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No doubt our atheist friends will point to this phenomenon as proof that Buddhism is not true. What it actually proves is that those supporting and patronizing such establishments are not good Buddhists (if they're Buddhist at all). Many people adopt the trappings of a religion for reasons other than believing it to be true. This happens in Christianity as well as other faiths. Unfortunately, enemies of faith point to such people, e.g. an evangelist caught in a sex scandal, as though they somehow proved that Jesus did not pay the penalty for our sins or rise bodily from the grave. All it proves is that we are all sinners, which we Christians have been saying all along. It's those who think all people are basically good who have some explaining to do.

I don't see how "exploiting" an IMAGE of a god or, in this case, of a philosopher/spiritual teacher, is ipso facto proof of said god's non-existence. It's not related to argument at all. Living, real people and past figures (even Einstein) have their image plastered all over commercial products. That doesn't negate their existence being actual.

Note, too, that the "exploiters" are often not Buddhists. And some who are may well be "religious Buddhists" rather than those who understand Siddartha Guatama's desire was to NOT be deified in any way. In some sense, doing that, as reverently as one can, puts even greater obstacles down in the way of achieving Enlightenment and nirvana. Perhaps, in an odd way, making light of the Buddha image is exactly a way to de-deify him/it. Once the gleam is off the statue and it becomes a crass toy, it might be easier to put it away and see the Buddha as one's true identity.

I agree, Freddy, that idols should be toppled from their pedestals whenever possible. However, my true identity is not Buddha (unless my mom has lied to me all these years). Nor do I claim to be enlightened, even in an "unrealized" state. I am what I am by the grace of God, not by some inherent unrealized godhood.

Who said anything about "inherent unrealized godhood"? Buddha is not god. Nor are any of us. Nor are any of us who may become aware of the Buddha-nature (poor English translation for Enlightenment). But again, I am not a practicing Buddhist, so I will not presume to speak for those who embrace that philosophy.

I see that Steve says he believes " ...idols should be toppled from their pedestals whenever possible."
So Steve, would it then be okay to have a " Jesus' Nails and Lumber" superstore or a " Blessed Virgin Maternity-Wear" boutique? How about an " Offerings to Yahweh" barbecue joint?
I imagine if some-such place had the temerity to open you might be up in arms- or is it okay to topple ALL idols, even those in which you believe.