There is without a doubt a startling disconnectedness growing in our society. I feel a lot of it has to do how technology allows us to replace personal interaction with artificial relationships with our technologies. You're not going down the street to talk to your neighbor-you sign onto AIM and have a "chat." You don't play ball with your friends-you stare at a TV with them, or alone. Putnam's book brings up a lot of other relevant causes for the lack of personal rapport, but technology plays a major role. It's scary to see people putting less stock in their relationships with other people, but it's something we're going to have to confront and discuss if we want it to stop.

This is for sure one of the most frustrating things about being a young adult today. In my family we didn't get rid of something until it didn't work anymore…. my parents still have their very first VCR. So, when I buy something I expect it to last. I've come to the conclusion if something I own stops working, I don't replace it. I had a Palm Pilot, but it only lasted two years. I went back to pen and paper. But I do feel that society breaks through my values from time to time and I feel the need to buy something new or "better". I try hard not to.

GM tried planned obsolescence to force users to buy replace their cars more quickly, initially boosting its own sales. However, planned obsolescence led to bankruptcy because people caught on and switched to more durable products from overseas competitors.

Hopefully, electronics companies avoid planned obsolescence. While the consumers will suffer in the beginning, they will find a company that manufactures long-lasting goods. For example, Apple Macintosh computers are quickly replacing Windows personal computers (PCs). Why? PCs are notorious for crashing whereas Macintosh computers are widely praised for their durability. Apple is stealing its competitor's customers by providing them with a more reliable product.

No matter how many companies try planned obsolescence, there will always be a competitor that provides its customers with high-quality, long-lasting goods. This competitor will rely on its credibility to steal others' customers. When will companies realize this?

so true, my next computer is definitely going to be a Mac. but what about the planned obsolescence that is totally based on cultural thought. advertising telling us you can't wear that shirt it's out of style this year, you NEED a new one to be happy! i think this may be even more dangerous than the low quality of physical products for exactly your reason. consumers will find an alternative of better quality. but what if the obsolescence is in our heads??