
The idea that smartphones are making us stupid might, at first, sound a little absurd. After all, that iPhone 11 or Samsung Galaxy S20 in your pocket is actually an incredibly sophisticated networked computer and camera with the power to immediately connect with anyone around the world. You could write a novel, edit a movie, or solve a complex math problem on this magical device.
But, of course, you aren’t writing novels, editing movies, or solving complex math problems with your smartphone. Instead, you’re using your incredibly sophisticated pocket computer to Tweet the details of what you just ate, watch videos on TikTok, and post your disappearing Snapchat photos from last night’s school dance. Then there are all those WhatsApp instant messages you so need to send each hour to your girlfriend or boyfriend and all those selfies that you—as a dedicated member of the Selfie Generation—post daily on Instagram.