The Case for Calling People on the Phone
This article advocates for a return to phone calls as a primary method of communication, arguing that texting has optimized conversation at the expense of genuine connection. It suggests that spontaneous calls can foster deeper relationships than efficient, text-based updates.
Why it matters
It addresses the psychological and social impact of digital communication habits on human relationships.
We’ve never had more ways to keep in touch. So why are we talking to one another less?
Harold M. Lambert / Contributor / Getty August 7, 2026, 1:37 PM ET Share Save This is an edition of The Wonder Reader, a newsletter in which our editors recommend a set of stories to spark your curiosity and fill you with delight. Sign up here to get it every Saturday morning.
Conversation has become optimized—but not always for the better. We send a quick text instead of making a call, react with an emoji instead of a laugh, and turn catching up into a series of efficient updates. Although staying in touch with people is easier than ever, we spend surprisingly little time talking to one another.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in