Why the F%$# Do People Talk on Cell Phones at the Movies?
Candid responses to a perplexing reality -- from sociologist Rich Ling and comedian Mike Birbiglia.
Major Human Flaw: Some people talk on their cell phones at the movies.
Response No. 1, by Rich Ling, sociologist and author of New Tech, New Ties: How Mobile Communication is Reshaping Social Cohesion: There’s a mismatch between people’s understanding of what’s going on around them and their need to be in touch with other people. When someone calls you or texts you, it’s a random positive reinforcement, a little gift. “Somebody’s noticing me and that makes me feel important.” Being noticed by other people is a real narcotic. You have to weigh the importance of your social life with your involvement in the collective film-watching experience. We need a balance between appropriate use and tolerant expectations.
Response No. 2, by Mike Birbiglia, stand-up comedian whose DVD What I Should Have Said Was Nothing is in stores now:
I was at a movie recently, and the guy next to me answered his phone during the movie. And he answered it by saying, and I quote, “Who ‘dis?” So not only was he willing to talk to someone during the movie, but he was willing to talk to anyone during the movie. He didn’t care “who ‘das.” (I’m not sure what the past tense of ‘dis is.) It could be a collection agency, and he’d be like, “What up?” And they’d be like, “Is this a bad time?” And he’d be like, “Naw, I’m just watching Diving Bell and the Butterfly.“
Next time: Blog commentors.
Find this article at: http://www.esquire.com/features/man-at-his-best/cell-phones-0608
1 comment:
Don't even get me started on the Bluetooth Cell phone idiots--those guys who are so important, that they don't have the time or energy to take the cell phone off of its hip-holster. True story.... I am relieving myself in the men's room at an establishment, when a bluetooth d-bag sidles up, and says "hey man, what's up?" like a new him or something. I replied, "hey man, I'm taking a pee". (only to realize later that he was utilizing his blue tooth headset to answer a very important phone call. Next blog subject "texting while pooping"
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