by Anznoo Wasim
Our parents, educators, and mentors have not placed sufficient emphasis on imparting these values to us, whether through religious or worldly education.
The past decade has witnessed a profound transformation in the utility and fabrication of mobile phones, courtesy of the advent of smartphones and high-speed internet connectivity. This revolution would not have been possible without the symbiotic relationship between these two technologies, for the functioning of one is indeed contingent upon the other. The convergence of these technologies, coupled with the intuitive interface of touch screens, has rendered modern mobile gadgets remarkably user-friendly, thereby democratising access to this technology across diverse socio-economic strata.
In the bygone era, the utility of mobile phones was largely limited to making and receiving phone calls, a functionality that, albeit useful, did not evoke widespread fascination amongst onlookers. However, the semantics of mobile phone usage underwent a paradigm shift with the emergence of popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, amongst others. These platforms, replete with innovative features that foster public engagement, have captivated the imagination of the masses. Furthermore, the proliferation of gaming applications, augmented by the seamless integration of Artificial Intelligence, has served to further entrench mobile phones into the fabric of our daily existence.
It is undeniable that the advent of modern technology has brought numerous benefits and advantages to our lives. However, it is equally true that these advancements have come at a certain cost, resulting in the erosion of certain liberties and charming experiences that were once an integral part of our daily lives.
The situation has been further exacerbated by our inherent tendency to misuse every tool at our disposal, often exceeding its judicious limits. This malaise is not confined to any particular section of society but rather is an affliction that affects us all, regardless of our social class, category, or background. Whether we are literate or illiterate, young or old, devout or agnostic, we are all prone to committing certain transgressions, often without even being aware of the inherent malevolence.
This pervasive problem can be attributed, in part, to the fact that we, as a society, have never been adequately sensitized to the importance of mutual understanding, respect for one another, and the need to maintain the dignity and honour of those around us. The virtues of observing etiquette, respecting the right to privacy, and cultivating a sense of empathy and compassion have never been accorded the importance they deserve, resulting in a society that often prioritises individual interests over collective well-being.
The notion of adopting civilised traits in our daily lives is a concept with which we are largely unacquainted. For centuries, we have been conditioned to submit to authority, often intimidated by mere displays of power and might. The values of gracious public conduct, which are essential components of a refined society, have not been ingrained in us during our formative years.
Our parents, educators, and mentors have not placed sufficient emphasis on imparting these values to us, whether through religious or worldly education. As a result, such tutelage has had little impact on our understanding and adoption of these values. Our behaviour and attitude towards the use of mobile phones in public spaces serve as a pertinent illustration of this phenomenon.
In this regard, it appears that we are driven by the notion that it is our prerogative to utilise as much free data as possible, wherever and whenever the opportunity arises. Many of us have become so accustomed to this practice that we involuntarily find ourselves fidgeting with our mobile devices, often mindlessly watching content whose value and relevance elude us.
The nature of the content available on these social media networks is another matter of concern. Despite being led to believe that we possess control over the content we consume, the reality is far from it. Instead, we are subjected to a vast array of objectionable material, carefully crafted by individuals who are utterly oblivious to our local values, customs, traditions, and sensitivities. We unwittingly play into their hands, squandering our abundant spare time under the guise of entertainment.
Our propensity for indulging in this behaviour knows no bounds, as we indulge in it with unbridled abandon, regardless of our surroundings. Whether we find ourselves in a hospital, attending a funeral, commuting on public transport, or participating in a social gathering, nothing seems to deter us from watching social media reels. It is a paradoxical state of affairs, wherein we eschew meaningful physical communication, instead finding solace in the virtual world.
This dichotomy is a telling commentary on the profound impact that social media has had on our lives and how it has altered our behaviour and interactions.
This situation is deeply troubling, and one that is not commonly encountered elsewhere.
It is perplexing to consider what prompts these individuals to believe that they are at liberty to harass or cause mental anguish to others, who are effectively powerless to avoid them or defend against their objectionable actions. It would appear that their intellectual faculties are insufficiently developed to enable them to grasp the far-reaching consequences of their behaviour on their fellow citizens.
In such circumstances, it is pertinent to inquire as to what recourse is available to these beleaguered citizens, who are compelled to endure such behaviour. It would seem that their options are limited to making polite, yet ultimately futile, requests, or resorting to more forceful measures if these entreaties fall on deaf ears. It is a regrettable fact that individuals who engage in such reckless behaviour are not, by any reasonable measure, socially responsible citizens, and are thus unconcerned with ensuring the peace and comfort of those around them.
To mitigate this situation, and provide relief to those who are adversely affected, it is incumbent upon our legislators to establish a code of ethics, if such provisions are not already enforceable under
existing laws. This would not be an unprecedented measure, as similar actions were taken in the past to combat the scourge of smoking in public places when it became apparent that individuals were unable to regulate their behaviour.
Similarly, decisive action must be taken to address the pandemic of digital troublemakers that we are presently facing. This public nuisance must be arrested, and these individuals must be loudly warned in all public places, utilising an unequivocal declaration: ‘The use of mobile phones on out-speakers is punishable under law.’
(The author holds a Postgraduate degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from the Media Education and Research Centre (MERC), University of Kashmir. Ideas are personal.)
