When iPhones first come out, they were the hot new technology. As time proceeded, the amount of technology they contained increased. There was everything you could ever dream about. The amount of games, music, and Internet access was just the start. Many of my friends were getting them, which made the decision up to me, should I get one? Not only did all of my friends have one, but they also introduced me to a “technological lifestyle”. Before I knew it, I fell into peer pressure and bought an iPhone. Many times my parents said “you don’t need an IPhone, it will just get you into trouble”. They were right. With all the games, apps, social media, and other great accessories, it seems practically impossible to not become distracted while doing activities that provide no disruptions.
Since the creation of the iPhone, driving and texting has increased as well as the amount of car wrecks per year. According to Edgar Snyder, 37% of people admit to driving and texting, this does not include the social media, phone calls, games or GPS used while driving. The creation of this technological device has increased the availability to communicate freely and seems to be a slippery slope towards its use in improper situations. As I realize the importance of driving without distractions, I ask myself if a single text message or call is worth risking my life and the lives of others? The path I believe we should take towards improving this situation is to take a step back with technological advancements. We must appreciate the technologies we have and respect the boundaries they contain.
These technological improvements do not only distract us, they also create a counterproductive form of entertainment. From the beginning, I was in “love” with the iPhone. But should someone really be “in love” with their cell phone? The weather app, YouTube app, picture messaging, social media, Internet, music, calendar and games are many beneficial perks that you may access off of your phone. The situation you allow yourself to use them relies on YOU. So why is that people cant stay off their iPhone? The distractions it provides when you’re on the road are detrimental to society. Apps, Internet, music, and GPS are all under common ground when I am driving. As it becomes increasingly noticeable I have witnessed the generations of phones change and the amount of time people put into them while actually driving. Having such a good form of technology but why so many negative side affects?
The use of the IPhone is most commonly found in teenagers and college students. Debating whether to pursue your destination or return the favor of a text, the risk easily out-weighs the reward. In the past I have functioned with my IPhone while driving and have had no issues. Society is revolutionizing and not being able to multi-task while you’re driving means “you are not cool ” or “wont fit in with the popular kids”. Should young adults really be allowed to function with their phones while driving? Why have we not made a statement to protect our upcoming generations from this? There are many ways we can help decrease the problem but are we going to make the leap foward? Seeing the issue rise only brings up debate. The common use of the phone is beneficial to society but what about opportunities it brings to young adults?
I like that you spoke about respecting the boundaries of our technology. I think that is very much an important part. Having technology is just as important as knowing how to use it. Also your mention of the multiple uses being the cause of the distraction. I have noticed that not only is it the ability to do things, but the idea of doing things that causes misuse of technology and ultimately an addiction to technology.
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