Movie Warning Should Be At Every Physics Conference

Here's the thing. Physicists in general are thoughtful, courteous people. Yet, at time, some of them can be downright rude.

When you go to a movie nowadays, especially in the US, before the start of the main feature, you will see a sign imploring you to either turn off your cell phones/electronic devices, or put them into silent mode. I think we will have to do this at every conference, especially physics conferences and lectures. I lost count how many times cell phones went off at the past TIPP conference, and in many cases, it is in the same lecture/talk! One would think that after the first one went off, considering the disruption (and embarrassment to the person involved), everyone would check their cell phones if they forgot to silent it. But nooooooo! A few minutes later, another one went off, and another! What gives??!!

Let's get this out of the way: IT IS UTTERLY INCONSIDERATE TO THE SPEAKER AND THOSE AROUND YOU WHEN YOUR CELL PHONES GO OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TALK!

Please don't perpetuate the stereotypical image of scientists/engineers being socially inept! Be considerate and turn off those damn cell phones during a talk! If you are THAT important, then don't attend!

Of course, I do remember going to a seminar once when the speaker's cell phone went off in the middle of his presentation. When that happens, all you can do is shake your head and move on.

Zz.