We are quickly entering into an era of human history when we are all virtually connected to each other at all times. Not only do most people have mobile phones in our pockets during the day, we are increasingly bringing them to bed with us at night. How many people actually turn their phones off? The only time I see the iPhone start up screen is when I'm rebooting my device. So for some of us, we are always connected to the invisible social network no matter what time of day or night.
My job demands that I be available almost all the time. This requirement could not have existed, in the same way that it does now, before mobile technology. It also allows me to do other things that would have been impossible without mobile technology. I can field a tech support call on the way to repair a piece of equipment, I can send a picture of the part I need to our provider or even pull up the necessary diagrams while I'm making the repair. I can also organize my schedule, group my business contacts, keep track of client information and their equipment, have access to technical documents, easily convert units, make sure a piece of equipment is level and one of my favorite features, use google maps to find out where I am and where I'm going. Amazingly, I can do this all on one small device that fits in my pocket.
This technology is obviously good for productivity, organization and business but what about social life? In a way we are increasing our social capital through increased connectivity with our peers, but does it come at the expense of real life social interaction? In many social situations our interactions may be interrupted by a text message or phone call. Its common to see people on their phones, whether they are texting, checking their email or looking at some sort of news. The question is whether or not this type of activity is rude or inappropriate.
I think that depends on the social context and the individuals involved. The rules of real life social interaction in competition with mobile technology has changed but that doesn't mean it's changed for everyone. In my work place it is common to be interrupted by phone calls or text messages. There will be meetings when we have our mobile phones in hand and business meals when we have to take phone calls. I also have friends who do the same in normal social situations. I find it acceptable and so do they, but there are friends in my peer group who do not find it acceptable. I've made the mistake of taking a work call right before sitting down to dinner with friends or responding to a text while in the middle of a conversation with someone who thought it was incredibly rude. I realize that it's important to evaluate how a person feels about these new social rules before using this technology in their presence. Some people get offended and some do not, it's often hard to judge what is acceptable behavior beforehand. Most of the time, if you see someone else doing it, then it’s okay with them if you do it as well.
I think a safe rule of thumb is to keep your phone on vibrate as often as possible. Try not to use your phone while eating with friends unless you know they would do the same. Always excuse yourself and take a call while away from the group and not at the table. Don't use your phone while talking about anything important with someone. If you have an incoming call or text message, most of the time a response can wait at least a few minutes, so find a good point in the conversation to excuse yourself for a moment. Be careful around people who do not have smart phones and extra careful around people who don't use mobile phones at all (yes they are out there). Be courteous and understand that social rules are mutual, we all have to find a common ground with each individual we interact with and come to a consensus on what is acceptable. What is acceptable for one friend may not be acceptable for another. Most of the time we have to change our habits to reduce the risk of offending someone else but letting your phone chill out in your pocket for a little while isn't the end of the world.
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