Episode 552 • • 1:46:45 - 1:51:55
552: Almost Certain = Fact!
Phoebus Cartel and Planned Obsolescence in Light Bulbs
The hosts explore the history of the Phoebus Cartel, a group of light bulb manufacturers in the 1920s that conspired to limit the lifespan of bulbs to 1,000 hours. They contrast this with the "Livermore light bulb," which has burned for over 110 years. The segment discusses how planned obsolescence has become a fundamental part of the modern economy, from iPhones to household appliances.