In a gloriously grumpy manifesto for our times, veteran West Australian columnist Ben Harvey has unleashed his definitive list of the top 100 things he wants to see completely erased from existence by the year 2026.
Harvey, a self-described "grumpy old man," has compiled a comprehensive and often hilarious rant targeting the myriad frustrations of modern life. His list, published in The West Australian, serves as a cathartic release for anyone who has ever been annoyed by a self-service checkout or baffled by a QR code menu.
The Digital and Social Annoyances Leading the Charge
Harvey's ire is particularly directed at the digital world's encroachment on simple pleasures. He takes aim at the ubiquitous QR code menus, lamenting the death of the physical menu and the shared experience of browsing it. The rise of the influencer culture also comes under fire, with Harvey expressing disdain for the curated, often shallow content that dominates social media platforms.
Other tech-related pet hates include the tyranny of two-factor authentication for every minor online interaction, the absurdity of "smart" appliances that complicate simple tasks, and the plague of subscription services for software and content that was once a one-time purchase. Harvey's list suggests a longing for a simpler, less digitally mediated existence.
Everyday Irritations and Consumer Gripes
Beyond the digital sphere, Harvey's list is a treasure trove of relatable everyday grievances. He vents about the frustration of self-service checkouts that never work properly and the corporate trend of removing human staff from service roles. The modern phenomenon of "deconstructed" food at fancy restaurants, which often leaves the customer to assemble their own overpriced meal, also earns a spot on his hit list.
He doesn't spare the world of commerce, criticising the practice of dynamic pricing (where prices fluctuate based on demand) and the endless, unskippable advertisements before online videos. Harvey's complaints paint a picture of a consumer experience that has become more costly, complicated, and impersonal.
A Call for a Return to Common Sense
While the column is framed as a humorous rant, it underscores a broader yearning for practicality and authenticity. Harvey's list, which includes items like unnecessary packaging, confusing road signage, and overly complicated coffee orders, is ultimately a plea for common sense and simplicity.
By cataloguing these 100 irritants, Ben Harvey has given a voice to the silent frustrations of many. His column is more than just a complaint; it's a cultural commentary on the pace of change and the small losses of convenience and clarity that accumulate in modern life. Whether readers agree with every point or not, the list is sure to spark recognition and debate about what we're willing to tolerate, and what we'd happily see vanish by 2026.
