While some individuals advocate for companies to produce long-lasting goods, others maintain that the focus should be on keeping prices low. In my opinion, having durable goods is more beneficial to consumers overall.
Firstly, cheaper products are more accessible to low-income households that might not be able to afford more expensive goods. Often, more costly items are of higher quality and are more durable, but for individuals who struggle to make ends meet,the high price tag is unjustified. For instance, a low-budget car might occasionally break down and not be as comfortable, but as long as it serves its purpose as a mode of transportation, it is acceptable.
On the other hand, proponents of durable manufacturing argue that such goods are more cost-effective in the long term. Long-lasting items are usually priced higher compared to similar products with a shorter lifespan because they are manufactured using materials of a superior quality. As a result, consumers who purchase products of a higher quality can use them for a considerable amount of time. Furthermore, durable products also reduce waste because consumers do not need to throw them away and replace them frequently. For example, lightbulbs with a higher price tag reduce the frequency of replacement purchases, allowing customers to save more money and also preventing pollution because of their durability.
In conclusion, while low-priced items are more affordable to lower-income families, ultimately, in my view, manufacturers should focus on producing durable goods because they are more cost-effective in the long run and also prevents waste.