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The Colin McEnroe Show
We're reading fewer books. That's not good
Dec 5, 2024
Rose Horowitch, an Assistant Editor at The Atlantic, discusses the alarming trend of declining book reading, particularly among college students. Maryanne Wolf, a renowned researcher in literacy and dyslexia, emphasizes the importance of deep reading for cognitive and emotional growth. Novelist Ben Winters adds perspective on the struggle to find meaningful literature in a fast-paced digital world. Together, they explore how technology skews reading habits and the societal consequences of choosing screen time over substantial texts.
48:56
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Quick takeaways
- The decline in book reading among college students is linked to educational reforms prioritizing shorter texts over complete literary works.
- Technological distractions and a tendency to skim content hinder the critical thinking skills necessary for a deeper understanding of literature.
Deep dives
Decline of Book Reading Culture
The podcast discusses the significant decline in book reading among college students and the broader implications for society. Recent surveys indicate that only 54% of Americans read at least one book in the past year, a statistic that reflects a troubling trend. An Atlantic article highlights that elite college students are increasingly finding it challenging to engage with multiple texts, owing to a lack of exposure to full-length books during their schooling. Professors have observed a decline in critical reading stamina, with students often becoming overwhelmed when faced with complex ideas or lengthy texts.
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