# Continuous and Exclusive By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2025-02-19 It is no secret that technology changes. As it does, our use of technology evolves, which in turn changes us. This dynamic is perhaps best illustrated by the example of telephones. When telephones became widespread, many homes had what was called a party line. This meant that several homes shared a common telephone line. The ring pattern would be unique to a given house, but any of the homes on the party line could pick up the telephone receiver and listen in on the call. When houses shared a party line, telephone usage was limited. People tended to be considerate of the fact that others might need to use the phone. As time progressed, most people with telephones had a unique phone line to their house. When this occurred, telephone usage could increase. One only had to consider the usage of those within one’s house rather than several homes on a block. Longer calls were now possible. Still, telephone calls were limited to when one was at home. With the advent of cell phones, one could take one’s phone wherever one went. Initially, usage was limited by data plans. One could be reached anytime, but one was careful about using the phone due to overage or roaming charges. Now, cell phones are ubiquitous, with nearly limitless data. The phone has evolved from being limited and shared to something that is continuous and exclusive. The consequences of this and similar technological advancements are varied. Being able to use something whenever and wherever one wants provides a great deal of choice and opportunity. Being able to be reached whenever and wherever one is means one is never fully disengaged from one’s professional obligations. Having exclusive access to something provides security that it will be available when needed or desired, but it also takes away the opportunity to cultivate one’s ability to share and be considerate of the needs of others. It is unclear if a society that is harried and self-absorbed creates the technology that aligns with its dictates, or if the continuous and exclusive technology provided to us subtly conditions us to these qualities. Technology offers something only at a price. Use it wisely. #### Related Items [[Technology]] [[Evolution]] [[Communication]] [[Exclusion]] [[Thinking]]