Very few people use landline phones for much of anything. So when you talk about things like online chat and social media messages and emails, what you're really talking about is the full extent of human communication.

Glenn Greenwald’s quote addresses the evolution of human communication in the digital age. He points out that very few people use landline phones anymore, highlighting the shift toward more modern forms of communication such as online chat, social media messages, and emails. Greenwald suggests that these methods now represent the primary ways people connect with one another, reflecting how technology has reshaped how we communicate.

The origin of this thought comes from Greenwald’s deep interest in the intersection of technology, privacy, and society. As a journalist and former lawyer, Greenwald has explored the impact of digital communication extensively, particularly in relation to privacy rights and the evolving nature of human interactions in a tech-driven world. His quote speaks to a shift in society, where the digital landscape has largely replaced traditional, face-to-face or voice-based conversations.

By emphasizing that these digital forms of communication represent "the full extent" of how people communicate, Greenwald is acknowledging the dominance of online platforms in modern life. This could be seen as a comment on how instantaneous and ubiquitous communication has become in today’s world. Whether through texting, emailing, or engaging on social media, these methods have essentially replaced older technologies like landline phones as the primary means of staying connected.

Greenwald’s statement also alludes to a broader commentary on how digital communication affects the quality and nature of relationships. While it allows for instant connection, it also raises questions about the depth, privacy, and authenticity of such interactions. In highlighting these shifts, Greenwald invites reflection on how technology shapes not only the frequency of communication but its very essence.