Notes on Suppressed Technology and Planned Obsolescence
Introduction
Discussion topic: Suppressed technology and planned obsolescence.
The lecture opens with the question: Why would a company sell a subpar product?
Emphasis on learning about information that companies may not want consumers to know.
Planned Obsolescence
Definition: A strategy where products are designed to fail after a certain period or usage.
Characterization as a "villainous strategy" for companies operating in an oligopoly.
Example of two producers of a niche product (customizable drum gloves) collaborating to determine the lifespan of their products to ensure repeat purchases.
Implications of Oligopoly
In an oligopoly, few companies control the market, making it viable for them to design products with planned obsolescence.
Contrasting competitive markets where consumers have more choices; in these markets, planned obsolescence is less effective.
Historical Context
1932: Bernard London proposed a pamphlet advocating for planned obsolescence to stimulate the economy.
Suggested setting legal expiration dates on products to force consumers to buy more frequently.
Although this idea didn't gain traction, planned obsolescence practices persisted.
Methods of Implementing Planned Obsolescence
Using inferior materials (e.g., plastic instead of metal).
Components designed to fail after a certain time (e.g., irreplaceable smartphone batteries).
Disposable items creating waste, yet are profitable for companies (e.g., razors, lighters).
Suppression of Superior Products
Companies may suppress superior products or intentionally produce inferior ones using their influence.
Examples:
Great rail car conspiracy: Automakers buying and junking electric public transit systems.
War of the currents: Competition between Tesla (AC) and Edison (DC).
Ice truck cartels preventing households from adopting refrigerators.
Issues with ink cartridges and college textbooks exhibiting planned obsolescence.
Consumer Electronics
Discussion on whether tech companies (like Apple) engage in planned obsolescence by making products that degrade over time.
Allegations of this practice are recognized in mainstream media (e.g., New York Times).
Video Games and Software
Noted presence of planned obsolescence in video games and consoles (e.g., lack of backwards compatibility).
Discussion on ownership versus licensing of video games.
Current Issues
Modern example: Conflict between internet service providers and Google Fiber regarding technology suppression.
Conclusion
Upcoming episode will cover a proven case of a company suppressing a superior technology.
Call to action for listeners to share any modern-day conspiracies regarding inferior products or technology suppression.
Mention of contact options for suggestions or questions regarding the podcast.