How it all began

Products aren't supposed to last forever. While they must endure some time of prolonged usage, they're engineered towards breaking at some point. This is so costumers have to buy new products eventually. Otherwise, companies go bankrupt.

But how do they do it? That's easy. Oligarchies employ large teams of scientists researching how they can manufacture products that deteriorate in the exact amount of time a customer feels satisfied enough to buy a replacement. It's all a lot more subtle now, but it's there nonetheless.

Back in the early 90s, plastic boots came out. They were a hit with housewives. Their quality was top-notch! Everyone was greatly satisfied. But the boots barely ever took a scratch to them. Lasting too long would stop customers from buying a new pair of them, so the company realized their mistake in offering a perfect-quality product out of the box. So began products meant to break.

The same happened with the first cars. There was only one type of car. Over the years, everyone who could afford them, had them. Sales dropped steadily. That's when Ford got purchased by someone who wanted to offer, at first, the sames in a variety of colors instead of just black. So began customization that made people want to buy another product despite already owning it.

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This post was typed within 5~6 minutes, originally intended as an entry for @mariannewest's freewrite contest. But it just turned out so wordy, cool and informative, I've added a picture and posted it on my blog! :)

Image source: pixabay