Throughout time cell phones have changed into something much different from their original purpose. This advertisement represents one of the many modern day uses for cell phones. The signifier “cell phone” brings to mind a small metallic object with buttons. The signified has a much greater meaning, one of people’s want for everything to be convenient. The question is whether or not this convenience is helpful.
Early on, cell phones were used strictly for phone conversations while on-the-go. Now there are many luxuries associated with phones that deviate far from their original purpose of conversations. Clearly, Verizon’s position is in favor of the luxuries associated with new cell phones since the company profits from them. The image of the phone with the tilted screen shows that it is convenient for doing non-conversation related activities. Time wasted with these so-called conveniences limits social interaction and real life.
Instead of using phones for talking, many people prefer to text. This texting limits vocabulary and usually lacks conversational depth. Due to this convenience, most conversations revolve around “what’s up,” or “lol,” and serve no purpose other than distraction. By saying this, I am not saying that cellular devices aren’t helpful at times, but for the most part, more harm is done than good. The use of the cell phone is under the control of the individual, and whether that is for purpose or not, that is his or her choice.
Hi, my name is Maria (im a part of the blog community) and I just wanted to say that this article sort of woke my mind up about the whole reason I have a cell phone. I mean, when I looked at the above picture I thought "wow, they can watch basketball on their phone, COOL!" but now that I take a step back I see the significance of the whole advertisement rather than just seeing the phone and what it can do.
ReplyDeleteI remember being in 8th grade and EVERYONE had a cell phone and the only thing I asked for Christmas from my mom the next Christmas (or my birthday) was for me to have a cell phone. Of course I didn't get it at first but she ended up buying me one and putting me on her plan (now that I think about I think I could have waited for a cell phone cuz it was a big cash guzzler)...anyway I felt like one of the cool kids and fitting in by having one. Again, thinking back on it im like "why would I want one at 14 years old?! Like what was I gonna do with it besides burn a hole in my moms pocket from her paying for the cell bill every month?" All I know is that it looked cool to have one...
Which brings me to another point, I dont know if anyone else thinks this but from being in the Cultural Studies class I feel like advertisements brainwash us into buying stuff that we don't really need based on it looking "cool" and why not buy it? I really think so but its just my opinion.
Now in college that I have a cell phone it's kind of irritating and annoying, gotta pay the bill and my people are always texting/calling for stupid things but it is nice to have one.
It was a good article to post, with the silver phone and the contrasting background, it makes it seem like its the only thing there. The whole visual effect of the ad makes me feel like "i'm relaxed, i'm cool (i dont know how many times I can say 'cool' in this article but oh well)...