christmas
...sonal information can be lost, conversations recorded and as more information is stored in the phone more can be stolen. Another problem is with the price dropping so fast cell phones have become disposable. The batteries are hazardous waste. The chemicals used to make the batteries and residual leakage form these batteries are poisoning our environment. Landfills are being filling up with these hazards. The antennae that we use in the Navy for radios have a red danger line painted around them for protection. Transmitters give off electromagnetic radiation. This radiation has been shown to cause cancer and brain tumors. Since the inception of cell phones this has been suspected of cell phone antennae as well. In September of 2001 a report from the Professor Lennart Hardell, Professor of Oncology at Orebro University in Sweden, found that cell phone users are two and a half times more likely to develop brain tumors on the side that they use the phones than people who do not use cell phones. These physical problems come along with another set of problems. Many States have passed laws against the use of a cell phone while driving. The distraction of cell phones has caused many types of accidents. Another subtler casualty is proper etiquette and respect for others. How many times at a fine dining restaurant, theatre performance or cinema have you had a cell phone ringing or someone talking “softly” on it? The social impact of cellular phones goes beyond what some would call rudeness. More people are talking on cell phones or by email, causing social interaction to decline. Some people cannot even handle direct conflict. Is this part of the de-humanizing influence that is causing the surge in teen violence? Have people lost the ability to settle differences face to face, handle adversity and communicate freely with peers? It seems the youth of today are much more extreme in the fight or flight reflex. Things that caused arguments and maybe a fight with a bloody nose in the past now accelerate into a firefight with fatal casualties. I am not saying this is “the cause”, but it may be a contributing factor. Ways to reduce resistance and increase acceptance of this innovation by the general population – A sub vocal microphone headset so you do not have to speak so loudly. Besides ringing and vibrating, give the option of a blinking light. Rules throughout the country on how and when to use a cell phone similar to the car and driving rule. Rules at restaurants, theatres and cinemas that cell phone users will be asked to leave. Most phones cannot become too much smaller or lighter so possibly a better design for use and wear. Wireless headset that is comfortab...