Indian journalist Saswata Chatterjee is renowned for his perceptive views on society and technology. He brought attention to a worrying trend in the way that cell phones can affect interpersonal relationships in one of his remarks.

Although smartphones are meant to bring us closer to others, Chatterjee's point is based on the observation that they can occasionally have the opposite effect. Rather than conversing with one another, picture a busy restaurant where everyone is bent over their phones. This phenomenon perfectly captures what Chatterjee was talking about: people can feel alone and disconnected even when they are physically close to one another.

Many people who observe that in-person interactions are declining as more interactions take place via screens can relate to this sentiment. Although smartphones provide many benefits, such as instant communication and information access, they also present a problem for developing real social relationships. Ironically, technology that is meant to unite people can occasionally put up barriers between them.

The way we use our devices matters, as Chatterjee's comment reminds us. It challenges us to think about the caliber of interactions in a world that is becoming more digitally connected and promotes a balance where technology enhances meaningful human connection rather than takes its place.