Sociology / Unit 10 Soc 1689 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Planned Obsolescence
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The idea
Planned obsolescence is deliberate product design with a limited lifespan, driving repeat purchases as technology and media accelerate consumer turnover.
In practice
A device engineered to slow or fail within a few years pushes its owner back into the market sooner than the hardware alone requires.
Where people slip
Planned obsolescence names a design strategy; a product wearing out from ordinary use is a separate, unplanned event.
Your place on the trail
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