Values
One of the most pervasive new technological inventions is the cellular phone. The mobile phone has greatly impacted the social and aesthetical values of people in most parts of the world. It is not uncommon for people to receive calls in public places, and frequently these one-sided conversations are even louder than those between two people talking in person. Loud rings, which are often digital sound files of popular tunes, contribute to the cacophony of sounds in urban environments. People are becoming increasingly more used to the sounds of cell phones ringing, which proves that the technology has already altered our perception of the environment. Mobile phones are now a pervasive part of our culture; people of all ages walk down the street with telephone in hand.
However, cell phones also raise a lot of controversial social values issues. There seems to be a lack of common courtesy in many cell phone users. When cell phones ring in movies or in quiet places like libraries, they disrupt the atmosphere and bother people. The self-centered attitude of many cell phone users has become commonplace and has transformed the way people interact with each other. The mobile phone has altered people's conception of public and private space: conversations on cell phones are often loud and personal, but the talker often doesn't mind that a group of strangers can overhear every word. Cell phones have changed some social values in a positive way, however. For example, it is now much easier to get a hold of people who are not at home a lot, which improves communication between friends.
Cell phones have caused the most controversy when they are used by motorists. People who talk on the phone while they are driving can potentially endanger themselves and others, and much legislation has been passed to ban cellular phones in cars.
People who use cellular phones need to practice common courtesy and manners. While the technology provides numerous conveniences and are a boon for many people, users should take care to avoid bothering the people around them.
