Have you ever noticed how slowly 2 minutes passes when a small child, let’s say a girl of 4, is saying, “Mama, Mama, Maa-maa,” over and over. And while you’re taking note of each second, have you wondered whether a much-deserved 2 minute silent treatment is an effective punishment for a kid who spoke - loudly - while you were talking on the phone or whether is an effective punishment for a mother who answered her cell phone while driving? I’ve had time to ponder this question but the constant “Mama, Maa-maa” prevented me from reaching any conclusions.