This thought experiment is centuries old, loosely linked to 18th century writings by Irish philosopher George Berkeley. There are two big gripes about modern-day concert going, phone use and talking. Phone use at shows is something I’m much more easy-going about, and I view it as audience and artist dependent. Earlier this month I went to a gig that explicitly asked for no phone use. I sometimes worry that I might only be doing things so I can capture the sight or event or moment with my phone.

Source: The Irish Times November 06, 2025 16:31 UTC