A New Way of Being The Attention Epidemic: Reclaiming Focus in the Digital Distraction Age - Johann Hari
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Mar 21, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Johann Hari, an acclaimed author and journalist known for his book *Stolen Focus*, tackles the urgent issue of declining attention in our digital world. He shares startling research on how devices contribute to rising distraction levels. Hari argues that our attention has been 'stolen' by societal forces and offers twelve key factors—both personal and societal—that affect our ability to focus. He emphasizes that the skill of attention is crucial for personal fulfillment and success in today's fast-paced environment.
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Attention Is Core To A Good Life
- The capacity to pay attention is fundamental to a good life and performance.
- Johann Hari argues digital devices are significantly reducing this capacity across society.
Evidence Suggests An Attention Crisis
- Multiple data points show attention is worsening, not just personal perception.
- Hari found scientific evidence linking rising attention problems to many modern factors.
From Skeptic To Investigator
- Hari first dismissed his worries as normal ageing or nostalgia.
- Later he observed alarming trends in children and adults that changed his view and prompted investigation.
