The Internet Says Goodbye

For example, mobile phones became popular because they were culturally compatible: we wanted to be able to contact anyone from anywhere, and this technology met that need. As mobile phones gained usage, culture shifted because of it: we started messaging more frequently in text, we started ignoring the world around us when we wanted to use our phone instead, possibly our attention spans decreased, etc.

These changes are not "decided upon," but derive from the way technology meets our needs. Our culture shifts through our technology use. But sometimes, our cultural needs aren't fully met by technology. Those who feel socially isolated yet communicate plenty via the internet may feel some of this. Just as our physical needs prompt technology, our cultural needs can do so as well. It's a process that goes on whether or not we're conscious of it, so being conscious of it, I'd argue, is important.