On scarcity and value

Fragments from imaginary dialogues

“Scarcity creates value.”

“What if it’s a scarce thing that no one wants?”

“I guess no value is created.”

“Value is perception.

value = perceived value

We can metaphorically think of scarcity as a value multiplier. 

desire = scarcity x perceived value

The fewer you have of something – the fewest being one –, the bigger the multiplier.

If the perceived value is zero, you get zero.

Perceived value creates desire.
Scarcity amplifies desire.”

“The inverse is also true:

Desire creates perceived value.

This is the infatuation pattern. Desiring someone makes you perceive them as more valuable. 

Scarcity – they being ‘one of a kind’, ‘irreplaceable’ – amplifies desire.

Only, in this case, the scarcity is an illusion.

scarcity = perceived scarcity”

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