Boy, do we like our mobile phones. If it’s not a survey revealing that a majority of us now hear them ringing even when they aren’t, it’s a report saying that there’s no longer much of a market for second hand phones, since people only want the latest models.
Boy, do we like our mobile phones. If it’s not a survey revealing that a majority of us now hear them ringing even when they aren’t, it’s a report saying that there’s no longer much of a market for second hand phones, since people only want the latest models.As Tron: Legacy lands at the multiplex, and fear of The Net grips us once more (this time in 3D!) perhaps it’s time to assess whether, as a nation, we’re in danger of becoming too attached to our tech toys, and in the process are losing sight of our humanity. God forbid anyone call Singaporeans robotic! A quick test then:1 You’re on a date at a delightful new restaurant. What’s the first thing you do when the food arrives?
- Thank the waiter
- Wait for your companion to start
- Order both of them to back off immediately while you rearrange the dishes for the perfect iPhone shot
2 Your cab is late arriving. What do you do while you’re waiting?
- Settle down with the book of renaissance poetry you carry with you for just such occasions
- Start up a conversation with the attractive stranger waiting beside you, marveling at how serendipity throws up such wonderful opportunities
- Post minute-by-minute updates to your Twitter account complaining about the appalling service, culminating in a suggestion for a flashmob protest outside the Comfort DelGro offices
3 Some good friends invite you to join them for an all-expenses paid weekend in Bali. What’s your initial reaction?
- Tell them you’d be delighted
- Explain politely that, although you already have plans, you’d love to join them next time, and can’t wait to hear how they get on
- Use TripAdvisor to decide whether the hotel is to your tastes, then Google Street View to work out which room to request
4 You’re at The Esplanade for the gala opening of a previously unperformed Beethoven Concerto, when the lead violinist mangles a note. How do you react?
- Keep quiet, these things happen
- Tut disapprovingly under your breath
- What’s the question? I can’t hear anything with my iPod on
If you answered mostly C, it’s time to unplug. Relax. Do some gardening. Go for a swim. Just be sure to text us to let us know where you are.