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A Sociology of the Smartphone

A Sociology of the Smartphone

Q Instructions: For this assignment, you are required to write a 250–500-word essay (double spaced, 12 point, Times New Roman font) demonstrating your understanding of the sociological concept norm. What are the norms that regulate smartphone use in public and other social contexts? Begin your essay by providing a definition of norms; and second, identify and describe a situation where smartphone use is appropriate and inappropriate. Demonstrate your sociological imagination by explaining the influence of technology on the development of the norms regulating human behavior and social interaction in the situations you identified. ThissceneLinks to an external site. from Larry David’s television show Curb Your Enthusiasm demonstrates that the norms around smartphone use in public remain in flux as the technology becomes increasing pervasive in our individual and social lives. The scene shows Larry trying to enjoy a meal alone in restaurant. Someone on a Bluetooth headset next to him interrupts his experience by yapping away. Smartphones and their norms of use are an issue that seems easy to relate. “What age is it appropriate for children to own a smartphone? When is it appropriate to answer and talk on your phone? When is it not? Why do we feel the need to answer the phone every time it rings?” While not of great social significance, this assignment on norm violation is a good way to begin to think sociologically and demonstrate the social processes of norm enforcement. PreviousNext

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Norms are the informal rules that guide what people do and how they live. They tell us what we should and should not do in a given situation. There are many norms that are informal such as, using your cell phone in public. Many places now actually have signs asking to not speak on your cell phone while in their waiting room. I agree with this. It is rude to go on about your personal business amongst strangers. Texting is a better choice in public situations. An example of appropriate cell phone use in public is when you're walking down the street, although you are in public, you are in motion and out in the open. I also have used my phone when waiting in line as a way of helping the time pass by. It is important however to speak in a whisper, as a form of respect for the people around you. Texting is always a better option in public, when you are with people you don’t know.