Riverdeep.net: News: Bells Are Ringing...Everywhere

January 14, 2000

Bells Are Ringing. . .Everywhere

Although there were over 520 billion local phone calls made in the U.S. in 1997, there are still over 2 billion people in the world who have never made a phone call. This is a staggering statistic in light of the increased availability and our dependence on telephones. The telephone appeared on most "inventions of the century" lists that appeared last year and most would agree that it is the communication medium of the 20th century. But, does our passion for instant communication pose other problems?

In 1990, there were over 5 million cell phone subscribers in the U.S. In 1997 that number rose to over 55 million, with estimates for the end of 1999 hovering somewhere between 60 and 70 million subscribers. Because of advances in technology, today's cell phones are lighter weight, have better and longer-lasting batteries, have improved reception, and include more features. They've become a symbol of our collective communication culture.

They're Helpful

Clearly, one important benefit of cell phones is convenience. Cell phones go everywhere: home, car, office, and the mall. In an unfamiliar location, the ease of placing a call is at once efficient and comforting.

Upwards of 100,000 emergency calls are made daily from cell phones, but the technology isn't always sophisticated enough to track the location of the caller. While we've read stories of dramatic rescues involving cell phones, they cannot come to the rescue in every serious or life-threatening situation.

They're Harmful

There seems to be no agreed upon cell phone etiquette. More and more phones ring in movie theatres, restaurants, concerts, and even at weddings and funerals. Because a cell phone conversation isn't private, the people around the "receiver" become unwitting eavesdroppers.

One of the last sanctuaries from the ringing was airplanes. Most travelers respected the air and stayed off the airwaves. But after a report in The Wall Street Journal suggesting that air carriers banned cell phone use not because of safety, but because of profits, the skies may also be filled with the sound of ringing.

In addition, the following health hazards have been associated with cellular phone use:

Dr. John Moulder, Professor of Radiation Oncology at the Medical College of Wisconsin, put together a FAQ list about cellular phone antennas and human health in response to concern that the microwave radiation emitted by cell phones is hazardous and could cause memory problems or cancer.
There is evidence that cellular telephones interfere with implanted pacemakers.
There's growing concern about using cell phones at gas stations because the electronic impulses could start a fire.

What changes should be made for our "cellularly-dependent" culture that addresses the benefits and potential dangers?

The Tide Is Turning

The benefits of using a cellular phone probably still outweigh the risks. Some of the changes underway preserve the convenience with respect to the surroundings.

Tracking: President Clinton signed legislation in October 1999 calling for the "development of technology that can track mobile callers." The Federal Communications Commission is also moving ahead with plans that require cellular 911 calls to automatically provide a caller's location.

Etiquette: In Baxter National Park in Maine, the use of cellular phones is banned. New York is promoting its own cell phone etiquette campaign in its state parks by placing postings at trailheads. In an ABC News article and survey, only 30% of respondents felt passengers on airlines should be able use cell phones during the flight.

Health Concerns: According to the Food and Drug Administration the "available scientific evidence does not demonstrate any adverse health effects associated with the use of mobile phones." Their consumer update on mobile phones addresses some of the health concerns about cellular phone usage.

Pacemakers: When used properly, cellular phones don't pose a serious health risk to pacemaker wearers. However, most doctors caution their patients with pacemakers about using cellular phones. The Chemistry Explorer Electrochemistry activities What is a Battery? and the more advanced An Artificial Pacemaker may help in understanding this potential problem.

Gas Stations: In Finland, where 60% of the population has cell phones, cell phone use is banned at gas stations. In the United Kingdom and Australia there are warning signs near the gas pumps. Here, oil companies such as Exxon mailed warning information to their dealers, even though they see the threat of an explosion as extremely unlikely.

Related Resources

Expanding Usage of Cellular Phones User Profile and Transportation Issues