I agree with the above, and I also wonder how much of the problem, at least at this point in time, is that we Americans have in large part lost our appreciation for quality and the work/craftsmanship etc. that goes into it.
I'm sure it's a "chicken/egg" deal, but it seems to me like so often in our culture today, the majority of people really can't grasp the concept of how and why a quality product is not only worth the initial price, but beneficial to them and society in general. Kind of the "three value meals are better than one square" anti-elitist thinking.
I'll eat my steak today and be hungry tomorrow while I work for the next one, rather than float along on happy-meals, thanks!
I think the same concepts are pretty apparent in the world of instruments too, but I don't think it does much good to drag up the specifics of that since most here are already aware...