All in ConTEXT

Though technology has had many positive impacts on our life-styles, it has also had negative implications.  Texting, specifically has become an issue.  Let's face it, we cannot live without our cell phones.  In fact, we can't even remember what we did without them.  It's hard to believe that something that was introduced within our lifetime has changed the world we live in so much.  Although cell phones help us to keep in touch, in some ways, they harm our face to face interactions.


First, it has surely changed how we interact socially with one another.  Before cell phones, we had no choice but to focus on the person, or people, we were with.  Now, people go to dinner with one friend only to text another the entire time.  In COMM 118, we discussed a phenomenon where two people are interacting and one person gets a text message.  They begin ignoring the person they are with and focusing on their phone.  The other person then checks their phone because they are being neglected by the other person.  This is something that I have noticed in life after discussing it in class.  As someone who is a little old fashioned compared to most of my peers, I find it particularly frustrating when I am trying to talk to someone and they are too busy texting someone else (or playing Angry Birds) to listen to what I am saying.  I have heard of a couple methods to combat this.  One, everyone places their phone face down in the middle of the table when at a restaurant.  The first one to cheat and look at their phone covers the check.  Another option is to collect everyone's phone at the beginning of a gathering and place them in a container as seen below.  

Though these ideas seem a little extreme, I do believe it is the only way to get someone's full attention in today's world.  When you really think about it, we're all so "connected," but at the same time, we really aren't at all.  

Another issue that has come with the increasing popularity of texting is the danger that arises when this type of communication is done while driving.  Pennsylvania recently passed a law making this act illegal, but it remains dangerous as this type of law is very difficult to enforce.  Many people think that they have somehow mastered this "skill."  I'm sure you've heard it a thousand times: "But I'm good at texting and driving, nothing will happen to me."  Check out this video where Oprah puts three avid texters to the test behind the wheel.  It just may change your outlook on this activity.  


Text responsibly.  It's important for both your well-being and your relationships.