Social etiquette of Smart phones: Where do we draw the line?
Just look around and we will realize that owning an iphone or even a blackberry is a common social phenomena. Try walking around asking people what these two devices are, and will be nearly impossible to find someone who does not recognize either gadget. However, the question is that does a person know how to use it wisely and not affect others, or it is just too much for them or even others to handle.
Due to technology, the functions of a phone grew increasingly. From a phone which could only make phone calls, it is common now for a phone to surf the net with just a touch of a button. Nonetheless, new communications technology creates a "double-edged sword”. For example, these gadgets allow people to exchange ideas electronically faster and easier. But constantly tapping of the keypad can be every bit as much if not more distracting than talking and it is also pretty insulting to the speaker. It erodes the boundaries between home and office. Adults can now do their work at home due to the convenience. Hence this will cause them to spend lesser time with their family. Teens would also lose focus on their studies as they could now log on to “Facebook” with just a tap of the button anywhere, anyhow and anytime. When the elders are talking to them, they might shut them out, eyes and mind fixed only onto the small screen. Basic manners that were instilling from young are all lost now. A mother and daughter might go out shopping together but with no form of interaction. This is due to the daughter constant “tweeting” and do not have any “spare” time to even speak to her mother. Just take a train ride or a bus and you will be able to see what I meant. Soon these gadgets might “steal” all of our manners even before we realize it. Hence, use it wisely and spare a thought for others as everyone deserve respect.
Done by:Theresa Lee(103573T)