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Anecdotally Speaking

225 – Shady Dealings in a Bright Industry: Phoebus Cartel

Oct 28, 2024
Discover the intriguing history of the Phoebus cartel and their shady tactics to limit light bulb lifespans for profit. Explore how planned obsolescence shaped the consumer landscape, leading to monopolies and ongoing effects on product durability. The discussion also delves into the legacy of these business decisions, reflecting on the shift from incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient alternatives. The narrative highlights the emotional impact of these revelations, inviting listener feedback to gauge its resonance.
08:56

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Phoebus cartel exemplifies planned obsolescence, as it intentionally shortened light bulb lifespan to enhance profitability through monopolistic practices.
  • The historical manipulation of light bulb longevity reflects broader themes of capitalism and the ethical implications of corporate decision-making.

Deep dives

The Origins of Planned Obsolescence

The discussion highlights the historical context surrounding the invention and evolution of light bulbs, starting from Thomas Edison’s initial creation in 1879. While early light bulbs had an impressive lifespan of 2,000 to 2,500 hours, the situation shifted dramatically by the 1920s as various companies began to consolidate into monopolies across different countries. Realizing that longer-lasting bulbs would negatively impact their profits, a group of manufacturers, including Osram and GE, formed the Phoebus cartel in 1924. This cartel set a standard lifespan of merely 1,000 hours for light bulbs, demonstrating how businesses can manipulate product longevity for increased sales, marking a key example of planned obsolescence.

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