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It's a bad day for wine-os and last minute gift-givers. This latest article from the BBC entitled "World Faces Global Wine Shortage" suggests that there was a shortfall of 300 million cases of wine in 2012 relative to demand. While this is great water-cooler conversation, it also raises a question I've had on my mind for a very long time: Why do human beings spend so much time, labour, and capital on goods that are unnecessary?
When I say unneccessary I mean we do not need items like wine, tabacco, or (please don't crucify me) coffee to survive. And don't get me wrong, I perfectly understand (and love) that such vices can add pleasure to our lives. As for their health benefits, while it seems like with each new day wine is found to have (supposed) curative properties for every known ailment...well, on the balance, I'm not sure that's entirely resolved relative to the hazards. Overall, given the vast industries these goods have spawned and the immense amount of labour and land devoted to their production, the relative benefits seem scant.
Am I out to lunch? Anyone have an answer out there?
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