This is definitely an interesting question, Elena. Here is what I think.
Yes, historical conversations about print technology do demonstrate parallels to modern conversations about the impact of the internet and cell phones. Both technologies have had a profound impact on society, and discussions about their effects on communication, culture, and individual behavior have been ongoing.
One parallel between the impact of print technology and the internet and cell phones is the democratization of information and the ability of individuals to access and share ideas and knowledge more widely. With the advent of print technology, books and newspapers became more widely available, allowing people to read and learn more than ever before. Similarly, the internet and cell phones have enabled individuals to access and share information on an unprecedented scale, allowing people to communicate and collaborate across geographic and cultural boundaries.
Another similarity between these technologies is the concern over the potential for negative effects on individual behavior and societal norms. In the past, there were concerns that reading too many novels or sensationalized news stories could lead to moral decay and the erosion of social norms. Today, there are concerns that the internet and social media can lead to addiction, social isolation, and the spread of misinformation.
However, there are also some differences between these technologies. For example, the internet and cell phones have created new forms of communication and social interaction that did not exist with print technology. Social media has created new opportunities for individuals to connect and form communities, but it has also been criticized for contributing to polarization and the spread of hate speech.
In conclusion, while there are some differences between historical conversations about print technology and modern conversations about the impact of the internet and cell phones, there are also many similarities. Both technologies have had profound effects on society, and ongoing conversations about their impact reflect a broader concern about the role of technology in shaping human behavior and culture.