Joke: how to sell a dead donkey

I came across an old joke about how it’s possible to turn a profit from selling a dead animal.

While the story is not true, there is a lesson to be learned.

The joke: Kenny and the dead donkey

A city boy, Kenny, moved to the country and bought a donkey from a farmer for $100. The next day the farmer delivered the donkey.

“Sorry son,” the farmer said, “the donkey died.”

Kenny asked for his money back, but the farmer said he already spent it.

Kenny said, “OK, then, just unload the donkey. I’ll raffle him off.”

A month later the farmer met up with Kenny, who said he sold 500 raffle tickets at $2 each and made a profit of $898.”

“Didn’t anyone complain because the donkey was dead?” the farmer asked.

“Just the guy who won,” Kenny explained, “So I gave him his two dollars back!”

A lesson in consumer education

The story reminds me of a more serious matter. I liken Kenny to companies that sneakily raise fees. If you catch them and call to complain, they will eventually admit they are wrong. And then they will usually offer to refund the overcharge. But here’s the important part.

Tell them a refund is not good enough

If all the company loses is an overcharge, then they are happy to create the mess again. They will still profit from customers who are unaware or do not complain about the fee.

You cannot be reasonable and win against underhand tactics: as I wrote before, smart consumers aim to be reasonably unreasonable.

I would prefer not having to argue, but sometimes it’s important to stand up for yourself, and others.