How about a non economical theory:

20th century went from near zero consumer technology to chokeful of it.

    - no fridge
    - no phone
    - no television
    - no computing
    - no kitchen appliance

These filled very basic human needs, and are gut level obvious benefits.

Most new technologies are justified by highly statistical research and never ending p-rating tricks to make you want more. But at one point, only ignorants/immature will run for it.