Technology has clear effects on the way people interact with others. Consider earphones and the devices to which they attach, for example, Earphones allow people to easily shut out the outside world. Listeners can then create a personal space where they have control over the inputs. When earphones are visible, they send a clear message to others not to interact with the wearer. Wearers can progress through their day without actually communicating with those around them. Portable music players also ensure that people never have to be alone with their own thoughts. Silence make many people uncomfortable. Music players provide entertainment and noise to fill every waking moment. Listeners don't have to worry about either getting caught up in their own thoughts or engaging in communication with others.