In the past, a slightly eccentric professor of archaeology in
West Africa would refuse to answer the telephone or reply to letters,
considering them an unwarranted intrusion. However, in modern times, the
telephone has become an essential part of living, connecting people worldwide
with instantaneous communication. Nevertheless, telephonic communication can
also have its drawbacks.
The telephone's ability to dial people at the other end of the world without
even going through an operator is impressive. However, time differences need to
be considered when making calls. Additionally, world news is instantly
accessible on our screens, often as it happens. While this can be useful, it can
also expose us to unhappy events like wars, accidents, acts of terrorism, and
tribal massacres. Such exposure can influence the outcome of these events
negatively.
The telephone has also decreased the volume of mail worldwide, leading to the
deterioration of the art of private letter writing. Private letter writing
allows one to collect and sort out their thoughts, and the finished product can
be a small masterpiece to be proud of. Because letters are considered of
secondary importance today, mail services in many countries have greatly
deteriorated.
In some instances, the telephone can be an annoyance, such as when it interrupts
business conversations or meals. Commercial concerns sometimes employ
salespeople to use the 'hard sell' on the telephone, and unwanted calls like
abusive and obscene calls can be a nuisance. However, modern telephone systems
can identify the source of these calls, which should help solve the problem.
Despite these drawbacks, the telephone can be a great blessing when properly
used. To the lonely person, telephone chats are a blessing. The telephone is
essential to business, the stock exchange, and countless other features of
modern life. In emergencies like police response to crime, fire or medical
emergencies, or transplant surgeries, the telephone is indispensable. From air
to ground and ship to shore communication, the telephone is vital. Properly and
responsibly used, it is a boon.
In conclusion, the telephone has its pros and cons. While it has become an
essential part of modern living, it must be used responsibly to avoid its
potential negative effects. |