Description
Book SynopsisA critical overview of one of the most pervasive digital technologies in the contemporary world. Written by two leading researchers in the field, with international renown and both industrial and academic experience.
Trade Review"When I look for informed understanding of the emerging effects of mobile phone use, I count on Rich Ling not only for sound theory and empirical foundations, but for insight and engaging writing."
—Howard Rheingold, Stanford University
"Smart, rich, panoramic."
—Lee Rainie, Director, Pew Internet and American Life Project
"At one time, we traveled to communicate or sat at home or work, waiting for the phone to ring. Now, the calls come wherever we are, whether we like it or not. This is the first comprehensive account of the mobile society, going well behind the ringtones to discuss how we're using mobile phones and how they are using us."
—Barry Wellman, University of Toronto
"Storied mobile communication researchers Jonathan Donner and Richard Ling have given us a savvy, panoramic view of how mobile communication has changed and is changing lives around the world. They reveal how portable communication technology is affecting every level of human endeavor, from socioeconomic transformations in the developing world to mischief in the classroom. Their adroit treatment is required reading for anyone interested in the subject."
—James E. Katz, Rutgers University
Table of ContentsPreface.
Acknowledgements.
Chapter 1. Introduction: the quarter century beyond the Maitland commission report.
Chapter 2. Short history of mobile communication.
Chapter 3. Mobile communication in everyday life: 3 Billion New Phones.
Chapter 4. Mobile communication in everyday life: New Choices, New Challenges.
Chapter 5. Debates surrounding mobile communication.
Chapter 6. Conclusion: Individual addressability, interlacing and the spillover of the control revolution
