Why do we want our belongings to do more than just function well?

We want our belongings to do more than just function well because this way we feel we are getting more value for money. For example, with an ipod, you get more than just an MP3 player – you also have the opportunity to play movies, store pictures, play games and play songs. In a small compact ipod that can fit in your pocket, you get about four individual gadgets all in one.

As soon as we can afford it, we are willing to pay extra for things with appealing forms because money is not as much of an issue. If you pay more, the object will do more for us and be better quality. For example, you could pay about £40 for a mobile phone that simply makes and receives calls but on the other hand you could pay around £300 for a mobile phone that makes and receives calls, takes pictures, plays games, is an MP3 player, has access to the internet, and much more.