A prática da obsolescência programada: reflexões e consequências na sociedade do hiperconsumo

Abstract

This paper presents as a central theme the study of programmed obsolescence in the consumer society, having as general objective the analysis of the obsoletism as practice that induces the early disposal of consumer goods and, consequently, causes damage to the environment. To this end, we used bibliographic research based on the investigation of scientific articles, theses, books, doctrines and jurisprudence, addressing issues related to consumption and the environment. In the present monograph, the evolution of the consumer society to the level of a hyperconsumerist society was analyzed, which legitimizes the rapid circulation and innovation of goods, highlighting the programmed obsolescence as a tool used to induce new goods to be acquired and discarded in the short term, through the deliberate reduction of the service life cycle of these products. In this context, it was evidenced the lack of specific prediction of the programmed obsolescence in the Consumer Protection Code, however, it was found that this should be considered an abusive practice, which violates the principles established by consumer legislation, as well as, its negative impact on the environment was demonstrated due to the inconsequential disposal of goods, causing the increase in waste generation. Finally, the present work discusses the importance of a performance in the sense of educating the consumer for conscious consumption, so that their decisions are attentive to the impacts that can lead to the environment.