From Pay-and-Own to Pay-to-Access

💳 From Pay-and-Own to Pay-to-Access: How the American Household Became a Subscription MachineBy The Hermit Note: This essay is meant to offer a broad overview of how the American household has shifted from a pay-and-own economy in the 1950s to today’s subscription-based model. It does not attempt to cover every detail, variation, or socioeconomic factor, but instead highlights general trends and practical ideas for those interested in rethinking their relationship with modern expenses. In the 1950s, the average American family budget was straightforward, built on the principle of paying once and owning for life. Whether it was a television, a...