Many of these devices are equipped with noise-cancelling technology that muffles the ambient sound of the world by emitting vibrations of the opposite frequency. They can be tuned to allow in some noises, like nearby voices, but not others.
Noise-cancelling headphones were first sold by Bose, in 1989, to allow pilots to communicate over engine noise. In the past several years, they have gone from a relatively niche productivity tool to a near-universal accessory.
The invention of Sony's Walkman, released in 1979, marked the first time recorded music could be consumed on the go using headphones. This also began a trend of individuals seeking to cut auditory contact with their environment.
If given the chance, a human being will use tools to minimize discomfort. It's hard to take in the sensory richness of the world when we have such effective ways of tuning it out.
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