Cell phone conversations don't present any more risk to people nearby than a normal conversation in which both sides of the conversation are present. Actually, if overheard conversations are risks, cell phone conversations should present only half the risk since only half the conversation is audible. According to columns, reports and letters in the U.S. newspapers, cell phone use in public ranges from outrageously rude to deadly. The solution, according to NNs and WBs, requires new laws, penalties, enforcement, prosecution and punishment. In other words, rather than allow society to develop a code of accepted behavior, a quaint concept formerly called good manners, NNs and WBs want the government to protect them.
Some people are upset when they see shoppers using cell phones.
I think it makes good sense. When you get to the store and can't remember what that third item was, you call home. Cell phones are handy when someone at home calls when you are shopping and asks you to pick something up. There may be a time when you don't know if Italian stewed tomatoes can substitute for Mexican salsa. A cell phone solves these problems.