Monday, Aug 03, 2009
Gulf News
Dubai: The mobile phone is the 21st century's answer to being everywhere, all the time - but can you go a day without yours?
Suzann Nitecka, an Abu Dhabi resident, wrote to Gulf News suggesting an international day dedicated to mobile phone avoidance.
Recently experiencing first-hand the joy of being unreachable when her phone went out of order, Nitecka said: "A day without a mobile phone was quite nice."
But is a "No Mobile Phones Day" realistic in a world dependent on technology for communication? Gulf News readers debate.
Trupti Ashar, an Indian expatriate residing in Dubai, thought life would be better without the "nuisance". "I tried being unreachable a few weeks ago, as I had no urgent need for my phone. It was a very peaceful feeling!"
According to Ashar, mobile phones are stealing tranquil hours of people's lives and the situation is only getting worse. "I can't remember a time when we could make do without telephones. Even children have mobile phones nowadays! People today have become afraid of losing touch, even when they could just get away from others."
Rujoom Qamar, a Pakistani student residing in Abu Dhabi, was sceptical about the idea of doing away with her mobile phone. "I use a very simple phone and depend on it for the basics of calling, receiving calls and sending text messages. My mobile phone is a blessing, and I don't see why anyone would want to be without one - unless they're extreme introverts."
Qamar conceded that while technology has now allowed people to use their phones for internet, maps and social networking applications, these add-ons were not really necessary.
For Salve Pelingen, a Sharjah-based executive assistant, mobile phones meant different things to different people. The Filipina expatriate said her work required her to be available on the phone at all times.
"Someone who doesn't work, for example, wouldn't need a mobile phone as much as someone who does! I personally cannot live without mine - even when I'm on holiday, I make sure I have my phone by my side."
Have mobile phones become an addiction? "They just make things more convenient," Pelingen said. "A task that would take you 10 days earlier, would now take just one. Being able to communicate with others instantly has a lot to do with that."
Salman Khan, a Sharjah-based accountant, agreed: "I would never be able to stay without my mobile phone! Its very purpose is to allow you to communicate when you're on the move, so why shouldn't you take advantage of it?" He added that while technology has empowered people, they should learn to use it responsibly.
"Facilities like music, maps and chatting is available to the masses now. Our mobile phones are much more than just phones - they provide entertainment on the go."
Could you live without your mobile phone? Why has it become such an important tool?
By Sanya Nayeem, Deputy Readers Editor
Gulf News 2009. All rights reserved.
