https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/7xgyye/amazon-is-celebrating-its-monopoly-power-with-prime-day > For many, Prime Day brings to mind Black Friday-like deals. And people love Amazon for its fast shipping, convenience, and often low prices. But what does it actually cost to provide all these services? Is it worth the company’s close relationship with ICE? Does it require that Amazon have inhumane labor practices? Do we really need to have police departments partner with the company to sell a dystopian surveillance system? And why, exactly, does Amazon need its own holiday? > Started in 2005 as Amazon's loyalty program, Prime has quickly grown beyond its original promise of two-day shipping for $79. Over time, the program’s offerings have grown to include ad-free television and movies, music streaming, unlimited photo storage, e-books and audiobooks, and a rewards program. Amazon Prime’s biggest reason for existing, however, is the role it plays in locking down Amazon's increasing stranglehold on the digital economy. And Prime Day is a chance for Amazon—and the people who get excited about it—to help Amazon secure its monopolistic power over online shopping.