Calls do better but lose that 80% of non-verbal contact.
The idea that smartphones bring us closer together is a far-fetched utopia, a hopeful blueprint for a different iteration of what we have today.
Worse, studies show a device's presence disrupts the connection between two people, reducing empathy, trust, and closeness. Research shows the unmistakable barriers to meaningful conversation and connection with phones in hand, on a table, or chiming from your pocket.
We sense this. We feel the weight of our devices on our relationships. Yet we still force them into our friendships and think them "necessary."
This is the pernicious lie of smartphone technology to make what was once trivial essential. Our lives, transformed by Big Tech, are landscapes of myopia and inattention addled like the mind of a pumpkin-eating squirrel. We tote our supercomputers around, ignorant of how our lives would differ given their removal.
This is the intentional lie of smartphone companies who market what was once unneeded as "upgraded" each year. Planned obsolescence and a hype cycle constitute the playbook for corporations looking to dominate societal conversation.
Dual deceit prevents those desiring true connection from ever taking the leap. We want our needs fulfilled by that which creates the deficiency.
Wanting more, we settle for less.
A smartphone directs our locus of attention outward, ignoring self-care and dignity for vicarious envy and self-doubt.
Not a good trade.
We forget we can't see the other till we choose to see ourselves.
We can't "use our phones less," as an alcoholic can't simply "stop drinking."
We can't engage community or culture when we're so engaged elsewhere...
