Tech Troubleshooting in Space – Econlib

The Hidden Cost of Modernity: Why More Stuff Doesn’t Always Mean More Happiness

When astronaut Christina Koch, the first woman to fly around the moon, reported a technical issue from space that sounded like a typical IT helpdesk ticket, it resonated with many Americans. Her complaint? “No joy seeing the device in the list of available devices when I attempt to re-pair it after doing the Bluetooth forget.”

Commander Reid Wiseman, aboard the Artemis II mission, also faced a relatable problem when he radioed Houston about his Microsoft Outlook not working. These moments of tech frustration went viral in April 2026, highlighting a common experience in our increasingly digital world.

As we accumulate more possessions and rely on technology for everyday tasks, the burden of maintenance and troubleshooting grows. Even advanced space hardware like the Artemis program’s equipment is not immune to glitches and malfunctions. The democratization of frustration is evident as we all grapple with the challenges of modern technology.

The Debate on Wealth and Happiness

The age-old question of whether wealth leads to happiness is a topic of ongoing discussion among economists. Some argue that higher income must correlate with greater happiness, while others question the validity of happiness surveys and the indirect impact of wealth on well-being.

Scott Sumner emphasizes the positive effects of wealth on health, environment, and human rights, advocating for continued economic growth as a means to improve overall welfare. Bryan Caplan takes a nuanced stance, acknowledging economic progress while noting that income does not always translate to increased happiness.

While the accumulation of wealth generally improves our quality of life, the added complexity and cognitive load of managing more possessions can offset some of the happiness gains. The distribution of responsibilities within households has shifted, with individuals taking on additional roles as IT support, subscription managers, and password keepers.

Unlike the NASA crew with a dedicated team of engineers, most of us rely on online tutorials and troubleshooting guides to navigate the challenges of modern technology. Despite the conveniences and entertainment our devices provide, the maintenance and upkeep can sometimes outweigh the benefits.

As we continue to embrace technological advancements and accumulate more possessions, it’s essential to recognize the trade-offs and complexities that come with modernity. While increased wealth can enhance our lives in many ways, it also brings its own set of challenges and frustrations. Finding a balance between the benefits of progress and the pitfalls of excess is key to achieving greater overall well-being.

Featured image, “Illuminated in Orion” from NASA.