The Addiction in Our Pocket

Abstract

Daniel Cummins sheds light on the prevalent issue of smartphone addiction and how it significantly impacts individuals' lives. Unlike traditional vices, this addiction is deeply ingrained in modern culture, making it challenging to address. Exploiting the brain's reward system, smartphones inundate users with dopamine-inducing notifications. Social media platforms exacerbate this addiction, employing tactics akin to those of casinos. To combat this, Cummins presents a radical shift towards mindfulness and meditation. Advocating for integration within educational settings, this approach aims to reclaim lost time for meaningful engagement. Ultimately, by prioritizing introspection over digital consumption, Cummins concludes that individuals can break free from smartphone addiction and reclaim valuable time that can be put towards a fulfilling life.