On the same subject, here's some art from Banksy:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-27319114

That was a brilliant piece Linda! I met someone (yeah in the sauna again lol) and he said he went on a date with a girl who only talked to him... via text!!!! She said she was too shy and hoped to see him again soon. I don't think there will be a second date

At least she actually spoke to you!

You obviously haven't read all the posts on here from me and others where we say we are posting from a dratted tablet or phone then!

At least the people out and about glued to their phones ARE OUT. A lot of people who spend a huge amount of time posting on forums and do it from their computer desks are stuck inside doing it.

Of course computers and being able to converse worldwide is a godsend to those who are of necessity housebound.

For me the BIGGEST bonus of them is being able to converse with my kids almost daily. I couldn't live anywhere I didn't have good fast internet. We talk on our phones, post to each other on bookface, use WHATSAPP probably more than anything - instant photo sending FREE. and SKYPE lordy gawd bless SKYPE!

I don't actually NEED any more good friends than I've got. My family comprise my 'best friends'. I meet and get to know people very quickly wherever I live. But I like my own time and own space as well. I've never been one to be popping in and out of other people's houses for coffee and all that. Don't 'entertain' and don't think twice about hanging my DO NOT DISTURB sign on my door either!

I do think it is quite sad when I see a young couple out for a meal and both are busy on their phones while facing each other across the table. I'd never do that and nor would any of my kids.

I've missed the guy who was supposed to be coming over today with my watch because I didn't take my phone out with me.

Kids worry if they can't get me on the phone and nag me about it. I mostly keep it with me to take photos.

But some of us do use our phones mainly for talking. I'd go blind if trying to use mine for the net. Bad enough using the tablet when dossing on the sofa.

I'd guess there are some people (even Dogsey people) whose only 'friends' they interact with regularly are online. Whether they use a phone, tablet, pc or laptop to do that makes no difference really. They might be stuck indoors and never see anyone to talk to if they didn't have access to the internet.

The internet shrank the world in my opinion.

same at markets... stallholders on phones or chatting to each other and no reaching out to potential customers.
i greet everyone passing, show interest etc.

i have a new cheap mobile for emergency use only and here an ip phone i only plug in when i need to call. hardly ever.

no book face etc;

but i was totally housebound many years and very alone and the internet then was a boon and a blessing. still is on bed days.

Oh dear! Guess I have to come clean and admit that, when tea is ready, we text our 21 year old (in his bedroom) to let him know but, but, but he then does join us at the kitchen table where we eat, chat and socialise before he returns to his cyber world.

Does this make us really sad or ( because we eat & talk at the table) do we gain a few points?