You're absolutely right. This is the result of effective marketing. We're told "buy on these days, you'll get the best value" while the exact opposite is true, yet very few seem to take the time to work it out.

However I do still believe some level on consumer protection is necessary. I do not think we ought to let the less-savvy be taken advantage simply because someone is smarter than them. Where to draw that line? That's always in flux.