The IPhone People, New York City

The IPhone People are a ubiquitous part of New York City, tethered permanently to electronic devices that entertain, message, or talk. Of course, there is nothing wrong with that portable technology, when used in moderation. However, you have to wonder about the long-term social and workplace effects of technology that constantly isolates you from the world around you. Not only is this technology a constant feature on busy New York streets, it has invaded the workplace, providing a private soundtrack for many office workers.

One effect I have seen as a result of such isolation is a decline in good manners. People who are plugged in are less likely to say “excuse me” or “pardon me,” when courtesy requires it while negotiating busy streets and walkways. They consider the effort needed to unplug for a moment or two to interact bothersome. As a result, many young people barge through their daily routine, dispensing with such courtesies altogether.

One recent study observed an accelerated decline in empathy among college-aged young people in the past decade. “College students who hit campus after 2000 have empathy levels that are 40% lower than those who came before them, according to a stunning new study presented at the annual meeting of the Association for Psychological Science by University of Michigan researchers. (Psychology Today)” Some researchers believe that the heavy use of portable electronic devices has contributed heavily to that decline. As empathy declines, the tendency to bully and manipulate others fills the void. Have you observed such behavior in your community? What will our society be like in another ten years if that drastic decline in empathy continues?

Photo by Don Peterson, Newark1 Web Design Studio, New York City.