Thursday, October 22, 2015

Planned Obsolescence and its Effects on Consumer Culture

With the current state of American consumer culture and the earth's depleting resources, planned obsolescence is a topic that must be discussed. While this deceptive business strategy of designing short-lived products originated during the 1920s and 1930s, its practice has developed into a widespread phenomenon that is influencing American culture now more than ever. Here is a working thesis: Since planned obsolescence developed midway through the twentieth century for industries to maintain sustainable profits, it has instilled values of greed and discontent in the American market that have reshaped consumer culture.

The essay will first focus on when and how this shift occurred in American industries. Before planned obsolescence, most manufacturers took pride in designing the best product possible. However, as the market became saturated due to consumer satisfaction, industries were forced to find a new way to maintain profits. The beginning of this essay will examine the automobile industry and its yearly design changes that sparked a need for new products. This among a few other examples formed the foundation of planned obsolescence. 

The essay will next explore how this practice developed over time and has now become a staple of American industries. Planned obsolescence takes different forms, as products need replaced when they lose their function or when they go out of style. This deceptive business strategy represents the greed of American industries, as most manufacturers (such as Apple) are not forced to implement this technique to simply stay afloat financially.

Furthermore, this paradigm shift has instilled values of greed and dissatisfaction in American consumers. This trend reflects a cultural shift where product replacement occurs at a blistering pace. Americans are never content with the product they currently have, even if they just purchased it; this draws them back to the market to satisfy their craving.

Lastly, this essay will focus on the direction of planned obsolescence and where it may be heading due to the earth's depleting resources. Links to online resources are listed below.






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4 comments:

  1. AnonymousOctober 23, 2015 at 6:24 AM

    I think you're definitely on the right track. I really like the topics you're going to discuss. Your thesis was great! You incorporated both the central claim and the time period that you're going to discuss. I also like how you related this shift to US citizens and how it affects us. Great job!

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  2. Brooke Cichocki - Technology-Assisted Music Learning ReflectionsOctober 23, 2015 at 6:25 AM

    I think this idea is unique and relevant, and you have a solid plan as to where you're going with your essay. Your thesis is clear and direct as well. Also, the topic will flow really nicely into a TED Talk, which is an added bonus.

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  3. Rachel ChiecoOctober 23, 2015 at 6:39 AM

    This is a great and relevant shift. I think that you definitely are headed in a great direction with it, and your discussion points really will help elevate your thesis. The time period you are focusing on is good also because it encompasses the shift without being excessive. I look forward to hearing more about this topic!

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  4. Robin KramerOctober 23, 2015 at 2:59 PM

    Matt, you're entirely on the right track. The thesis is sharp; it not only identifies the shift with precision, but also notes its significance.

    I have no concerns or critiques at this point. Green light -- keep progressing!

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