Soc120 W5d1: Consumerism And Planned Obsolescence

Soc120 W5d1 Consumerism And Planned Obsolescencetuan Pham4272017 2

Consumerism refers to society's desire to purchase products and services, driven by cultural and economic factors. In everyday life, consumerism manifests when individuals buy clothing to adhere to social norms or to fulfill personal needs. These clothing items are manufactured through processes that involve the extraction of raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal, a cycle known as the material economy (Leonard, 2007). Excessive consumerism results in resource waste and environmental degradation.

Planned obsolescence is a strategy employed by manufacturers to design products with limited lifespan or functionality, encouraging consumers to replace items prematurely. This practice sustains continuous demand and profits for companies. For example, automotive manufacturers often redesign models to appear more modern or perform better, but such changes may also include intentional reductions in durability or functionality. Brands like Pontiac, Saab, and Saturn used this approach to remain competitive, encouraging consumers to upgrade more frequently.

Personally, I hold beliefs aligned with environmental responsibility, emphasizing conscious consumption. I evaluate products based on their longevity, usefulness, and environmental impact. As a handyman, I own durable tools, many passed down through family, and I prefer products with warranties that facilitate recycling or replacement rather than disposal. While I purchase electronics and appliances that may involve planned obsolescence, I ensure recycling electronic waste whenever possible. My family's avoidance of battery-dependent products further reflects our commitment to sustainability.

From an ethical perspective, consumerism and planned obsolescence can be examined through various moral theories. Ethical egoism posits that actions are justified if they maximize individual or corporate utility. Companies, motivated by profitability, may engage in planned obsolescence to enhance their economic benefits (Mosser, 2013). This corporate behavior aligns with egoist principles, prioritizing self-interest over consumer welfare.

Utilitarianism considers the greatest good for the greatest number. While consumerism could stimulate economic growth, unchecked resource exploitation leads to environmental harm and social inequities. Therefore, from a utilitarian standpoint, sustainable consumption practices are preferable because they maximize overall well-being in society and the environment.

Deontological ethics emphasizes duties and adherence to moral principles, such as honesty and respect for consumers. Companies have a moral obligation to provide quality products that serve consumers fairly without deception or manipulation. Employing planned obsolescence raises ethical concerns, as it may violate principles of honesty and respect for consumer rights.

Virtue ethics emphasizes morally commendable character traits. Virtuous companies would prioritize integrity, environmental stewardship, and long-term responsibility over short-term profits gained through planned obsolescence. Consumers, guided by virtue ethics, should act with prudence and moral integrity by supporting sustainable products and companies that exhibit ethical behavior.

Critically, the societal implications of consumerism and planned obsolescence extend to environmental sustainability, economic fairness, and corporate responsibility. Excessive consumerism contributes to the depletion of natural resources and increasing waste, raising questions about our collective moral responsibility (Leonard, 2007). Planned obsolescence further exacerbates this issue by intentionally designing products with limited lifespan, fostering a throwaway culture that undermines sustainable development.

Consequently, ethical frameworks generally converge on advocating for responsible consumption and manufacturing. Policies encouraging transparency, durability, and recyclability align with deontological and virtue ethics. Governments and consumers can promote better practices through regulation, increased awareness, and choosing brands committed to sustainability, thus balancing economic growth with moral accountability.

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