Just One Too Many Ringtones, Turn that Mobile Off

Technology has become a love-hate thing. I'm a typical example. After all. Where would I be without my beloved little flip-top Motorola, with its store of priceless baby pictures and virtual address book? Completely lost, of course. But there are days when I swear out loud at my phone, thanks to its constant interruptions. And surprise, surprise, I'm increasingly intolerant of other people's mobile use.

I can't help feeling that technology has increased levels of both rudeness and intolerance. It is now an accepted part of everyday life that the average woman carries around 25,000 Baht of 'walking wealth' at any one time, including mobiles laptops and other gadgets. But, with one in six of us carrying an mobile iPod, or an MP3 player wherever we go, why are so few of us skilled in the laws of techiquette? Why don't we know how to use our new toys with grace, poise and consideration for others?

Our attitude towards technology is schizophrenic. We want more of it, but wish sometimes that it would go away.

Now some airlines are planning to allow mobile use on there flights, except during landing and take-off. It is already possible to use your phone and Wi-Fi in the MRT (Bangkok subway). On the other hand, there is increasing pressure for theaters to use phone-blocking devices, already common in parts of Europe. Thirty-three percent of Thailand report having their enjoyment of a public event ruined by ringing and beeping.

I'm very pro-technology, because it can bring people together. It's overuse and rudeness that are counter-productive. So, if you meet the person, please turn off your phone immediately. It's so rude when people leave their mobiles on during dinners, or meetings. It used to really bug me. But, recently, I have noticed that increasingly people do ask permission to use their phone. If it's super-urgent, just say, "Excuse me, I'm expecting a call". You should warn the person. You can't just stop a conversation to take a phone call.

I'm also guilty of making that "Sorry!" face as I hand over my credit card at the counter. I think as long as you're sensitive it's fine. I'm a bit shocked by this. Surely, it is hugely embarrassing to behave as if the person serving you is not there?