Inconsiderate Behavior vs. Personal Freedom: Heated Debate
How Far Should Cafe Charging Go?
There has been ongoing criticism regarding behaviors such as bringing personal monitors to franchise cafes and charging multiple personal electronic devices using power strips. Recently, controversy has arisen after a customer was seen charging an electric scooter at Starbucks.
Opinions are divided: some argue that charging an electric scooter, which is not particularly large, is no different from charging a personal phone or laptop. Others insist that outlets in cafes are intended for charging small devices for work or convenience, and that charging equipment that consumes excessive power is inconsiderate to others.
On November 19, a post titled "Electric Scooter Charging Spotted at Starbucks" appeared on an online community. The accompanying photo showed an electric scooter, presumed to belong to a man, being charged at a window-side bar table outlet. The scooter was about the size of a backpack.
Although it did not obstruct foot traffic, many online users expressed concern. Comments included, "If more people do this, even those who just want to charge their devices normally will be prevented from doing so," and "It's probably a lithium-ion battery. What if a fire breaks out?"
However, some argued that there is no problem as long as charging occurs in designated areas and does not directly inconvenience others. One user commented, "How are we being harmed? I don't see why phones or laptops are allowed but electric scooters aren't. If it's about taking up space, then is it okay to leave suitcases or bags?"
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