Nothing aggravates me more than buying something that does not work when I get it home. Whether it is purchased at a local store or through the latest mail-order catalog, if the item does not live up to its advertised promises, I feel cheated. Most people do not mind spending money on those objects of their desiring, some of them necessary, others frivolous, provided they live up to the expectations which were made on the packaging.

At one time or another, I suppose, we are all tricked by the slick advertising schemes, designed to create the illusion that this product is vital to our survival. With mega-hype and great fanfare, we are persuaded that this item will add quality to our lives, save us time, or enhance our ability to perform our routine tasks. The gimmicks employed dull our sense…