We Built Loneliness Machines and Called Them Smart

2025-06-14
We Built Loneliness Machines and Called Them Smart

Since the advent of smartphones in 2010, they've become ubiquitous, yet this pervasiveness comes at a steep cost. This article argues that excessive smartphone use leads to addiction, loneliness, depression, and damage to mental and physical health. Furthermore, smartphones exacerbate social divisions and political polarization. While an outright ban is unrealistic, the author suggests collective action to mitigate their negative effects, including promoting a "right to disconnect", to regain freedom and well-being.