Linux Phones

I'm assuming, then, though, that you do have a computer, in order to receive emails and such.

You assume correctly. My computer (which is not a laptop btw) is indispensable. I have a strong desire to keep my digital life all in one spot and a PC is my best option, since I also like to make software and play video games.

If you've been doing it since the 80s, have there been eras that have really challenged your desire or whatever to not have a mobile phone?

I have never once looked at a smartphone and thought "man, I wish I could do that." I'll admit, once in a while I do daydream about how easy they make it to send and receive money, but that's about it. I don't make or spend enough of it for it to be a huge concern.

Do you think life would be much easier if you did have a mobile phone?

Believe it or not, it has gotten slightly easier to live without a smartphone in recent years. Medical providers started providing online portals where you can do everything. In years past, they were pretty dogmatic about doing everything over the phone.

It helps a lot that I live in a very rural area full of boomers (in America, yes). People here still go to the bank in person, restaurants have paper menus, people still use paper atlases to get around, etc. So I haven't run into any barriers to conducting life business without a phone.

Why do you not have a mobile phone?

They simply never interested me when they started becoming popular while I was in college. I grew up in a time when you left the house in the morning, and no one knew where you were or what you were doing until you told them when you got home in the evening. I like that, so I keep doing it.

Do you think other or younger people should follow your lead?

I think they should do it if they want to, and fight to keep it possible. And always remember: if someone tries to tell you you can't do something without a phone, they're just bluffing. Everything is negotiable.