On Tue, 27 Oct 1998, Marvin wrote:
> (i.e. the IBM TPC I just got), I do not agree with taking advantage of
> peoples ignorance about what something might be worth, especially if I am
> out soliciting computers. Running into them on ads or at swap meets does
> not constitute taking advantage :)!
Well, I take exception to this. What constitutes "taking advantage of"?
I can maybe moralize that if I was buying computers to turn around and
sell on eBay, but I'm not. I'm adding them to my collection. So it is in
my best interest to get the best price possible.
Also, its relative. Since I am of the opinion that eBay does not
constitute fair market value, what advantage am I taking?
And what obligation do I have to tell the ignorant seller about my hard
won knowledge on collecting computers? How much do I have to tell them?
What if I tell them there's a market for what they have, then what? Do I
have to go into a whole discussion about how they could log on to this
place called eBay, list their item, wait 7 days and then they're rich?
What if the seller doesn't even have an internet connection? What if they
do end up selling it to someone else for more than I would have paid?
Shouldn't I be entitled to a consulting fee for pushing them in the
direction to make more money?
Don't get me wrong, I still feel a little guilty when I get something
REALLY good for a song that I may have had to pay a testicle for on eBay.
But then again, to me these computers have no monetary value, just
historic. I come up with a price that the seller thinks is fair. I'm
happy, their happy, and more more computer is saved.
Sellam Alternate e-mail: dastar_at_siconic.com
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Received on Tue Oct 27 1998 - 11:40:44 GMT