I think a big part of the problem is that it's often cheaper to buy a
new one made in China than it is to fix things. That plus most people
are too lazy or stupid or intimidated to fix things themselves.
Personally, I'm closing in on 40, and I'm still learning quite a bit
about how to fix everything. Between my 10 year old car and my vintage
1950 house I'm renovating I've learned quite a bit. Haven't needed a
contractor yet except for one minor thing and my car hasn't seen a shop
for years except for tires.