The Minimalists talk about different kinds of surprise purchases, impulse purchases, and annoying purchases, and they answer the following questions: What’s the difference between surprise purchases and impulse purchases? (01:39) Why do sales seem particularly pernicious now? (04:06) What are the two kinds of surprise purchases? (07:44) Do manufacturers bear any burden for creating superfluous products that exist as little more than items to be purchased as surprise gifts for others based on their novelty rather than their practicality? (11:33) Are we being too dismissive of new technology that seems to promote sedentary lifestyles but could be incredibly helpful to the physically challenged? (19:34) How do we get our partners to include us in the purchasing processes of significant items? (25:20) How do you define “compassion”? (29:32) Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support