Pedestrians gasp in unison at spectacular near-collisions between bikes and taxis. Los Angeles lacks such contact. Nobody walks in L.A., but, more importantly, the windshields in front of drivers' faces remain there mentally even after they leave their cars. Cell phones similarly have begun to isolate New Yorkers from each other. Pedestrians now traverse Gotham's avenues in their own private, metaphorical phone booths, blissfully disconnected from their neighbors and fellow citizens.
Cell phones are really high-tech leashes.
They prevent their owners from escaping the bonds of duty, even briefly. They have their time and place, and get my full attention and consideration when I am working or relaxing at home. That aside, there is little that can be done about these things in a free society. Send it along. Contact Us .