This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
There was a wait for tables at the restaurant S and I went to on Saturday. Here's a look at how people passed the time. You may notice a similarity (sorry the pictures are a little dark):
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Very few people were "just" talking—without their phone in their hand (and in one case, an iPad). Instead, people would view media (e.g., a video, a game) on a device and offer commentary. Or they were texting (and updating the group about the message). Or they were updating a Facebook status. Or taking a photo.
These scenes are definitely not anomalous. What are you seeing? Send your pictures of people waiting and using technology as a means to pass the time to comments[at]anthropologyinpractice.com and I'll share them.
Have something to say? Do you have an umbrella story to share? Comments have been disabled on Anthropology in Practice, but you can always join the community on Facebook.
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