Bose is popular, because many consumers are not interested in "high end" audio, and wish to buy things that are convenient, and perform decently. Bose does just that. They're alright speakers, if you like to have music in the background while you work, etc. (for the average consumer). Their high price is 'justified' with good looks, small size, and convenience, and that describes many products on the market today. "Better Sound Through Research" = "More Money for us Through Consumer Surveys, Publicity, and Media and/or Store Promotion"
and that's the way it will always be.