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I would argue that the analogy isn't really there because expensive consumer products can confer utility just by being expensive. In a very simple, animal way
by AbrahamParangi 10y ago
I would argue that the analogy isn't really there because expensive consumer products can confer utility just by being expensive.
In a very simple, animal way having difficult-to-attain things communicates that you have the ability to recruit significant resources and therefore are a cool and important guy or gal and deserve respect and consideration.
Whereas having a lot of game points communicates that you may be an addict.
- javadocmd 10y agoThat is conspicuous consumption, and digital goods can perform this function just as well. As an extreme example, the "I Am Rich" app. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Am_Rich https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Am_Rich
- dmoy 10y agoExpensive consumer products CAN confer utility just by being expensive. See e.g. studies on wine ratings vis a vis knowledge of price. It is disturbing to me, but it is the reality of things :/