Monk in B&W?

I just saw a promo for Monk on the USA Network asking if Monk is more "Monkish" in color or in black and white. The December 22 episode will first run in black and white and then immediately run in color. After viewing each episode, you're supposed to vote on which version you liked best.

I don't understand why they are doing this, but after visiting the Monk website I noticed their phobia for the day is Chromophobia, the fear of colors. I'm curious as to whether this has any relevance to the upcoming episode. Regardless, I think this is a ridiculous promotion, but it's something a network whose tag line is, "Characters Welcome" would do.