With the exception of Swiss army knives, inventions with multi-purposes tend to be disappointing. A perfect example of this might be futons, uncomfortable sofas which can be transformed into even more uncomfortable beds. Other less-than-perfect transformers include the home laundry machines which were both washing machines and clothes dryers and cars that can also be used as boats. While we’re on the subject, how well did those cars that transformed into trucks actually sell? Were they really all that easy to operate? According to Reuters, "A German firm has begun offering sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses with detachable frame arms that double as chopsticks or forks. The glasses designer says there is growing demand from time-pressured sushi fans eating their favorite food on the go." First of all, it’s difficult to imagine huge numbers of "time-pressured sushi fans." Eating raw fish should be an activity requiring both ceremony and great mental preparation. Sushi was never intended to be gulped down with the reckless abandon often associated with a quarter-pounder and fries. One obvious drawback to the dual-purpose glasses frames is that diners have trouble seeing their food when their eyeglasses have been disassembled for use as chopsticks. In the case of sushi, this might also be an advantage. The so-called "sushi specs" may be selling well in Japan but there might be additional problems when they are customized for other foods. Chopsticks made from eyeglass stems will be perfect for entrees such as sushi or General Mao chicken with a side of rice, but it will be dangerous to have the frame stems do double duty as steak knives, shish kabob skewers or sharply pointed fondue forks. Self-amputated ears will become the rule rather than the exception. When that happens, there will be nothing to keep our hats from sliding down over the lower halves of our faces. Without two ears, we will have no places to anchor our sun glasses, reading glasses or even the wonderful, new eyeglasses with removable stems for eating purposes. The dual-purpose eyeglasses will defeat their own purpose. We will also run the risk of having unsightly bits of food stuck to our hair and faces if the eyeglass stems aren’t rinsed off properly. Of course, running around without two complete ears can also have an upside. For example, people will no longer have to pay for expensive pairs of earrings. They will be able to share the expenses and the earrings with their one-eared friends. We will tend to look artistic and worldly. Natural comparisons will be drawn between us and Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh, who removed the lobe of his left ear with a razor in 1888. With missing ears we will look more intimidating, a good thing if that’s the look we’re after. We will resemble people who simply can’t get along with boxer Mike Tyson. Actually, we really don’t need dual-purpose frame stems for eyeglasses. That’s why hands were invented the way they were. It’s no accident that fingers on hands resemble the tines on forks. Most, if not all, foods can be eaten without utensils. That is, if you’re hungry enough.