[MarkPNeyer]

starbucks relies on providing the user a quick fix of doamine when they feel stressed or unfocused, which keeps them coming back.

versace and cadillac rely on providing their customers a feeling of superiority and social status. cadillacs are arguably better engineered than other brands, but versace is clearly all about status.

i think it's a reasonable comparison, but as others have said, this is what most companies do anyhow.