Today Apple, the iPod and computer maker, posted profits that defied the recession. It’s Apple, the iPod and its computers and now mobiles that as much as anything else really forces me to confront my shopping desires. Apple make great products that look and feel wonderful and bring me pleasure. I can’t deny that I like my iPod and iTunes on my PC.
But what if we were all seduced by Apple and their conveyor belt of new must have gadgets? By all I mean the 6 billion people on the planet. There wouldn’t be enough resources to do it. But surely everyone should be free to own an iPod? And what of their rather phoney here to help you ‘we are not shops’ but gadget surgeries – like some high tech swish version of the NHS?
There is nothing wrong with a bit of shopping – but how do we keep the balance right when products like this appear? And let’s face it most iPods don’t last a year and serve as irresistible objects of desire in playgrounds and the streets for kids who can’t afford the trappings of consumer success.
I’m often intrigued by the difference between classic and timeless design, which must be a good thing, and the conveyor belt of techno rubbish. We need some beautiful and functional things around us. So what is the difference?
Having beautiful things is no big deal. People have always sought them. Great houses that still stand were probably extravagant when they were built, but are nicer than post-war semis. There is nothing wrong with excellence. Apple should not be blamed for making desirable, superior products. The malaise occurs when materialism is supposed to be a short cut to happiness, and when constant consumption of rubbish eats up all resources. I appreciate using my Mac; my iPod is useful on occasions. Neither of them define my existence, and on balance I prefer the sequoia tree I planted. See : http://gliddofglood.typepad.com/the_glidd_of_glood_blog/2009/03/index.html for more details.
Great One…
I must say, its worth it! My link, http://www.creolezone.com/index.php?do=/event/view/learning-how-to-dress-is-just-one-of-many-things/,thanks haha…