How do paragraphs 1 through 4 develop a central idea in “Excerpt from Gadgets: Built To Not Last,?

The author develops the central idea in paragraph 1 through 4 stating the fact that companies are deliberately creating gadgets that have less life, so that consumers buy new products.

Explanation:

Excerpt from Gadgets: Built To Not Last is an article written by Mike Elgan. The article talks about the durability of electronic gadgets these days. The author asserts that the companies these days deliberately make gadgets that does not last long. The reason for doing so is that consumer will buy new products once the old becomes obsolete.

The author cites an example of his experience in paragraph 2, how bulb in his lasted only 1-year whereas the bulb in near fire station is working since 1901.

The author asserts that by creating less durable gadgets the company earns money. Because obsolete gadgets will mean buying of new products whereas long durable products will lessen such chances.