How Anthropologists view cell phones?

Question

How Anthropologists view cell phones?

Answer 1

I'm sure they find it convenient when they have to reach someone quickly & electronically, anywhere in the world...

Answer 2

I did a search on "anthropology cell phones" and got more than 400,000 hits.

There's a book called "The Cell Phone:  An Anthropology of Communication" by Heather Horst and Daniel Miller.

There's an article in Wired magazine that says that nearly all teen socializing is now carried out on cell phones.  It's common to see groups of teens sitting together but talking to friends on cell phones.  Meanwhile, in the adult world, rude use of cell phones is creating a backlash.

A 2005 study done by Context-Based Research Group said that there should be more user education and an emphasis on social unity.  Nearly all their survey respondents said they'd like to have the phone, computer and PDA all included in one device.

In Israel, you can buy a kosher cell phone.  They don't take pictures or send text messages, and it is prohibitively expensive to use during the Sabbath.  It also comes with more than 10,000 blocked numbers, so you can't call a dating service or phone s*x provider.

Do the search--it's pretty interesting.

Answer 3

As I have observed, Anthropologists don't usually use their cell phones. They're more into researching and participant observations.

Answer 4

...as a precious neccessity. as long as it doesn't ring in middle of a lecture.