How dependent are we on technology?
How depend are we on technology?
In this day and age cell phones are essential for people of all ages, whether we like it or not.
But just how dependent are we on smart-phones nowadays? Could we go a week without them? A day?
More than three-fourths of Americans own a smartphone. Not just a cell phone which can only send/ receive text messages and also make calls, but one that is capable of downloading apps and accessing the internet. In 2018 the 253 million (3/4) Americans that own a smartphone spent 1,460 hours on their phone, that adds up to over 91 waking days. Another startling statistic is that those same Americans also spent $1,380, adding up to a total of 349 billion dollars.
If those statistics do not scare you, here is one that might. The average American person will spend $14,000 each decade on smartphones. The average working lifetime adds that up to a total of $70,000.
Samsung and Apple are the leading smartphone producers in the world. Pictured is Samsung CEO Koh Dong Jin (left) and Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Hold up. 91 waking days? 349 billion dollars? $70,000? All due to this tiny device that I can literally fit into my pocket. I do not know about you, but my eyes widened when I read those numbers.
Smartphones are mostly being used by teenagers and people in their early 20’s and that raises the question: do you think, as a teenager, that you can live without your smartphone for a week?
While there are certainly many advantages to owning a smartphone, it also comes with disadvantages. Social media, cost, and addiction are among the cons to owning a smartphone. Do not be fooled though, there are plenty of pros including instant connection, entertainment, and GPS services.
To be completely honest, I think that I could do it. I know that it would be difficult, especially at first, but I think it would bring a sense of peace and relaxation to my life. It would definitely help me engage in more activities and hobbies that I have. It would also probably convince me to talk to my friends in person more often instead of texting and face timing them.
Maybe these stats helped convince you to hop off your cellphone a bit more and embrace the people and world around you, or maybe it did not and that is ok too. As long as you do what makes you happiest.
A video talking about the effects of technology can be found here
Laurel is a senior at Sartell High School. She enjoys spending time with her friends and family and also watching Netflix in her free time. Her favorite...
