Hi Pete,
This is an interesting question. I think it's a good basis for an article on recorded phone menus, and how irritating and un-consumer-friendly they are. I also think we should have a discussion on it in the Answerbank discussion forum.
But as the issue stands, my friend, I'm in no position to answer your question as to why companies use recorded phone menus. I guess it saves money and time and staff.
And as far as the heart attack and stroke thing goes, don't you think you're over-reacting, slightly?
I guess we'll have to put the trend down to modern society. We as humans are slowly merging with machines, and Pete, my dear, I think we're gonna have to get used to it.
Sorry, I couldn't adequately answer your question. Maybe someone else can.
One last thing thought, Pete, I think this topic would sit well in the IT discussion forum. Why not transfer your query over there, and let's get everyone talking.
Bye
Christina.