I've recently seen a lot of advertisements, billboars, etc. promoting the cricket, the "affordable" cell phone. From what I can gather, cell phones were once a luxery item. It wasn't seen as a problem if only the better-off half could afford them, because they weren't a neccessity. As cell phones have become more popular, it has become increasingly "necessary" by social standards, to have one. Not just in terms of communicating, but also in terms of safety, cell phones are seen as something one must have, and it is becoming increasingly important that they are made accessible to lower income families and people.
I found an article titled, "Cricket partners with Legal Aid to provide cell phones to abuse victims." This article not only addresses the issues of low-income women, but also the isssue of safety. The article states, "Sometimes we take the power and importance of communication for granted." Those who have a cell phone are often dependant on it. Communication is of the utmost importance when it comes to networking, getting places safetly, and in this technology driven society, securing a job. More and more people are noticing the divide among people who have a cell phone, and low income people who don't, and they are finally starting to do something about it.
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14 years ago
I couldn't agree more with the what these companies are doing. Because there are so many fancy phones out there with unnecessary accessories and luxuries, seen with the iPhone and Blackberry, there is still a lingering belief that cell phones are just luxuries for play. However, with the rates of violence and crime where they are at right now, the luxuries of the cell phone seem to be overshadowed by the idea that cell phones, above all else are for safety. While the
ReplyDeleteidea of everyone being accessible at all times is somewhat controversial, I think it is necessary to have the means of getting in touch with people, whenever and wherever. I know for one that when someone doesn't answer their phone, my first reaction above all else is that something might have happened to them. While I know this is a bit extreme, its a comfort for me to know that my family and friends are reachable if anything ever did happen. I think what these companies are doing is a great thing because cellular service has become very expensive. When it comes down to it though, everyone does need a cell phone, but, they don't need all the fancy features. These cricket phones are a great way to meet these basic needs of families and individuals and will greatly narrow the growing gap of inequity in cell phone service. By providing everyone with the basic tools of communication, Cricket phones will not only help fulfill basic needs, but help people feel more united and connected to the technologically advancing world.
I think you found really interesting article. Information technology is developing in enormous speed, and it enabled people to afford the advantage of it, but on the other hand, it made the gap between people.
ReplyDeleteI think its similar case that some cell phones has tracking system itself so parents can always check where is their children. However, this idea is even greater because while that tracking system is available for people who can afford it, this cricket's cell phone is contributing people's safety, who are struggling from abuse and in a need of contacting with others.
It is true that technology is taking a role to reinforce one's development, however, there should be someone is excluded from that benefit.