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597. Why Do Your Eyeglasses Cost $1,000?

Freakonomics Radio

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Evolution and Symbolism of Early Spectacles

In the late 13th century, primitive spectacles were first worn by friars and priests in Italy, serving as handheld devices without arms temples. Early spectacles were associated with clergy and scholars but also depicted in early modern paintings on government officials, tax collectors, and money changers to symbolize scrutiny and suspicion. Wearing glasses symbolized a suspicion of nefarious activities, with the devil sometimes depicted wearing spectacles, representing the ability of glasses to reveal hidden truths.

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