I understand how cigarettes were advertised and pushed, and seemingly unavoidable.

Is technology the same? Yes and no...we can totally abstain from tech and live that lifestyle. But then we wouldn't be here discussing this issue at all, or ever.

So while they are both pushed: if you cut out smoking today you can still live a 'normal' life. Cutting out tech is a drastically different life.

I'd rather not discuss what is meant by 'normal' -- I hope you get where I'm coming from.