• by Amy , August 20, 2007

Hi my name is Amy and I do not own an Mp3 player. Yes, despite my identification as a music fanatic, I find myself still part of what seems to be a declining minority of people without such technology. Maybe due to my lack of an iPod or a Xtatix Pocket Candy (I swear I didn't make that up), recent reports regarding etiquette and Mp3 players have greatly gained my attention. According to dictionary.com, etiquette is defined as conventional requirements as to social behavior; proprieties of conduct as established in any class or community or for any occasion. Ok, seems simple enough. So what IS the deal with all the social concern about the sudden rudeness spawned by the iPod? I mean, owning one is becoming quite conventional, right? For example, an article written on ITworld.com, (http://www.itworld.com/Tech/2987/050228digitaldecorum/) boldly states the social faults brought forth by the community of iPod users. As tone deaf listeners, iPod users sing a long to their favorite tunes with total lack of respect for innocent bystanders, and acquaintances avoid awkward small talk by plugging in their earphones. With all this rudeness being tossed around, one must wonder: Is it really the iPod's fault or is it just the new whipping boy for social imperfections?