On the Subject of Beauty, and Why I Don't Do Macs

At this point, I think about 90% of my friends own Macs. So Brian, they ask, when are you getting a Mac? These things are awesome, they say, why are you using a PC? They cite Apple's superior usability, rock-solid hardware, and super-reliable OS. Thanks for your input, I say politely, I will consider your feedback and get back to you shortly.

I've learned not to argue with the Mac owner. They clearly made that conscious jump to a Mac and would like to impart their new-found knowledge on those who have not get found their Way.

So why don't I own a Mac? I have two answers for that- one is rational and the other is irrational. My rational answer is a very simple cost-benefit analysis. Is the added benefit of (perceptively) better usability and better hardware/software (debatable) worth the premium of paying for a Mac? My personal answer is no. I find myself very productive on a PC, rarely have any problems with viruses/crashing, and rarely have any major malfunctions (no more than the average PC or Mac). I believe any added productivity on a Mac or PC would be marginal and thus not worth a significant premium.

But for the more interesting, irrational reason why I don't have a Mac: Macs are beautiful. And yes, that is why you own a Mac. To repeat, whether consciously or subconsciously, that is why you own a Mac. Perceived superior usability and marginally better reliability are convenient reasons for the switch... but we both know you're dating her because she's hot.

And of course that's a perfectly good reason. A very positive physical bond is good for any long-lasting relationship. But as far as digital relationships go, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There is a certain acquired beauty in a PC that isn't for everybody. She's a bit quirky, sometimes gets sick, sometimes goes blue. But in the end, we make things work. Over time, I've learned how to manage and often prevent any fights we get into. I guess what I'm trying to say is that me and the PC have a long history. And even that alone has significant, albeit irrational, influence on my decision-making. I acknowledge and respect the universal beauty of the Mac. But to me, her beauty is empty, without substance, weight.

Just sayin