Yep. Today you can buy a 18 cu ft Frigidaire with no ice maker and no water dispenser (just like we had in 1976) for well under $500. Same with microwaves, dishwashers, all appliances, really.
The entire thesis of this article is incorrect. A more accurate measurement is how many hours does the average middle class man need to work to afford these items. In 1968, a color TV might have been 3 months salary. It was also expected to last for 15-20 years.
Today, a 65" 4K TV might cost 2 weeks salary and when it breaks in 5 years, it is already outdated and cheaper to buy a new one than fix it.
“In 1968, a color TV might have been 3 months salary. It was also expected to last for 15-20 years.”
That 1968 color TV needed continual maintenance to keep it running. Alignments, adjustments, new tubes. Tuner would last only of few years.
“Today, a 65” 4K TV might cost 2 weeks salary and when it breaks in 5 years, it is already outdated and cheaper to buy a new one than fix it.”
My 2k TV is 5 years old and still working perfectly. It is not 4k but I don’t consider it outdated. Absolutely beautiful picture.