Understanding the Psychology Behind Dishonest Dealers in the Comic Book Community
The comic book community is known for its passion, creativity, and sometimes, frustration. One common issue that often arises is the perception of dishonest or overcharging dealers. Why do so many sellers in this vibrant realm seem to operate with a focus on maximizing profits at the expense of buyers?
Subjectivity of Value
The value of a comic book is subjective and can vary widely. The number of copies in circulation, the date of publication, the condition, and the demand are just a few factors that influence price perception. These variables are constantly changing, making it difficult to pinpoint a truly objective value for any given comic.
A decade ago, I posed a hypothetical scenario to a hundred comic creators. Despite having comparable skills and experience, the quotes they provided ranged from significantly lower to over a hundred times higher. This disparity highlights the subjective nature of value in the comic book community.
The Psychology of Buyers and Sellers
Buyers and sellers often operate from different perspectives. A seller might justify a high price due to expenses such as shipping, storage, or simply the cost of locating a hard-to-find comic. On the other hand, a buyer might feel that the price is too high, especially if they are out of pocket for the purchase.
A common scenario involves a buyer leaving a yard sale if the items aren’t within their price range. If a comic seller is not seen as offering a good deal, potential buyers might turn away. However, it’s important to recognize that the decision to accept or reject a price is ultimately the buyer's and doesn’t reflect the true value of the comic.
Price Perception and Buyer Behavior
The perception of price is heavily influenced by personal circumstances. For example, a buyer who is broke, lazy, or impatient is more likely to perceive a seller as trying to rip them off. Price perception varies based on personal financial standing, impatience, and the perceived value of the comic from the buyer's own perspective.
Take my mother and I going to yard sales as an example. My mother often comments on items she thinks are too expensive. I remind her that if a price seems too high, it's her brain telling her she doesn't want the item enough to buy it. I also emphasize that sellers have the right to set their own prices and that no one is obligated to be a buyer or seller.
The attitude of buyers can also be reflected in the way they justify their decisions. Sometimes, a buyer might look up prices at other retailers (like Walmart) to justify a purchase, thinking, "It’s only 50 at Walmart, which means it’s a good deal." However, this reasoning is flawed unless the buyer was going to purchase the comic at Walmart to begin with.
Conclusion: Buyer's Perspective vs. Seller's Perspective
To conclude, understanding the psychology behind perceived dishonesty in the comic book community can help buyers and sellers communicate more effectively. The price of a comic is not just a negotiation over its intrinsic value but also a reflection of the buyer's and seller's individual circumstances and perceptions.
Buyers should be aware that their perception of value is highly subjective and can be influenced by factors beyond the comic's actual worth. Sellers, in turn, should be mindful of their customer’s perspective and try to find common ground.
Understanding and respecting these differences can lead to a more harmonious and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in the comic book community.