12 Jun 2025

Are smartphones extensions of our mind?

From Afternoons, 1:35 pm on 12 June 2025

Rather than being cognitive extensions of our minds, our smartphones are parasites devices designed to steal our, money and data - says a team of Australian philosophers. 

A recent paper in the Australasian Journal of Philosophy argues smartphones pose unique societal risks to humanity - all while benefiting technology companies and advertisers.  

Rachael Brown Director is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Australian National University.

She co-authored the research and says when viewed through the lens of evolution, our phones aren't much different to head lice, ticks, fleas and tapeworms.  

Man in bed with smartphone - blue light

Photo: 123rf.com