The Great Lightbulb Conspiracy

it's always fascinating to see unintended consequences of major planning initiatives. perhaps in hindsight, it feels predictable but i think in the moment it can be challenging to think short, medium and long term.

in some ways, this gives me hope when at times it feels parts of society feel doom and gloom about climate change and political divide.

it makes me think about the over-population fears and where that ended up.

i appreciate thinking through multiple outcome scenarios as a way to flex that muscle. not necessarily to get better at predicting the future, but to consider and accept that the world is a chaotic place and control can (and should be) an illusion.

adaptability and morality might be better levers to pull on.

This article discusses the Phoebus cartel, a group of lightbulb manufacturers who conspired to shorten the lifespan of lightbulbs in order to increase sales. The cartel was successful in reducing the lifespan of lightbulbs from 1,500-2,000 hours to 1,000 hours. However, the cartel's actions ultimately led to its downfall, as competitors were able to produce cheaper lightbulbs that lasted longer.