Diego Hidalgo discusses phone bans for teens to aid parents

Diego Hidalgo, a sociologist and magician, has dedicated his career to addressing the growing concern of screen addiction, particularly among teenagers. He believes that excessive use of mobile phones can lead to unhappiness and a lack of critical thinking, drawing a parallel between minors using phones and unlicensed teenagers driving cars. This analogy highlights the potential dangers of unsupervised technology use in young people. In his discussions, Hidalgo emphasizes the importance of guiding children towards a healthy relationship with technology. He acknowledges that while technology can simplify life, it can also lead to increased dependency, making individuals less capable of navigating the world without digital assistance. His approach is not to eliminate technology but to ensure that it is used in a controlled and informed manner. Hidalgo's perspective has gained traction as society becomes more aware of the implications of screen addiction. He notes that when he published his first book on the subject in 2021, he anticipated more criticism, but instead found a growing recognition of the issue. This shift in awareness reflects a collective concern about the impact of technology on well-being. Identifying as a technocritic, Hidalgo advocates for the responsible use of technology, believing it can be harnessed for positive outcomes. His insights encourage a critical examination of how technology shapes our lives and the importance of maintaining autonomy in decision-making.