Have cell phones warped people's sense of politeness? Folks have been asking that question since the invasion of more competitors in the late 1990s. Because people can communicate regardless of time or location, no place is sacred to cell-phone use--even the public restroom. So it's not surprising that 20/20 talks about cell phones reigning in rudeness. Ironically, even the majority of business travelers, who I find are usually some of the worst offenders in airports, don't want cell phone use allowed on airplanes, according to a study from Carlson Wagonlit Travel. Of course, the industry promotes events like Cell Phone Courtesy Month in July to pay lip service to the issue, but it isn't going to push this etiquette thing too hard. Wireless executives love all those annoying chatter boxes driving up minutes. Article
