Amazon knows how to push buttons

There is nothing more dangerous and thrilling than having an Amazon Prime account. Here’s why.

All you have to do is think of something you want (anything except for live animals or real estate, I think), find it on Amazon.com, click “purchase,” and feel an undeniable – and very temporary – rush of excitement. It seems like nothing’s more exciting than making that purchase until you actually make it.

One millisecond later, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your purchase. Two days later, your dream item will be at your door. Two-day shipping is standard and guaranteed with an Amazon Prime account. Sometimes, your package arrives in one day or the same day, or yesterday, if you’re lucky.

The only thing that suffers is your bank account.

I will admit that it was by accident that I fell into the joys and sorrows of Amazon Prime. When I forgot to cancel my free trial a few years ago, and Amazon automatically “renewed” my subscription for a “nominal” fee, I went with it. And most of the time, it’s incredibly useful to order something and have it arrive quickly with free shipping.

If you think this sounds like instant gratification, keep reading.

Recently, Amazon unveiled a new way to shop: dash buttons. (Don’t worry, I had to ask what they are, too!) Dash buttons are small, doorbell-shaped buttons you can install in your home. These buttons are made by brands such as Crest, Benadryl, and Charmin, etc. And for $4.99 each, they can be yours.

This is what Amazon has to say about them: “Each Dash Button is paired with a product of your choice, which is selected during the set-up process. When you’re running low, simply press Dash Button — ensuring you never run out of your essentials again.”

Voila! In two days, more toothpaste, granola bars, and cat food will be at your door.

What could possibly be wrong?

Just when it seems like shopping couldn’t be easier, the Dash button further fuels the fire of instant gratification.

I also think it’s a little unnecessary.

If you really need to easily and quickly purchase more paper towel, is pressing the Dash button going to deliver in a timely fashion? Or, on the other hand, do you really need to restock items like “Orville Gourmet Popping Corn” that routinely? (Not judging, just sayin’).

It seems bizarre to me to need to have a fast, convenient way to order something you’ll need in the future. If your purchase is planned so far in advance, why do we need a method of ordering that requires no thought?

As a whole, I will defend online shopping. (There is a Starbucks brand Dash button, after all). Oftentimes, it does save time and money to order the essentials from the comforts of your own home. But when it comes to purchasing something at the mere press of a button on your wall, I’m a little wary. How easy is too easy when it comes to depleting my bank account?

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