

Books vs. Brain Rot: why it's so hard to read
11 snips Feb 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Elaine Castillo, author of "How to Read Now", and Abdullah Shihipar, a research associate at Brown University, explore the troubling decline of reading in America. They examine how digital distractions and the allure of instant gratification impact our ability to focus on longer texts. Discussing data on literacy and the cognitive benefits of reading, they share personal strategies for reigniting the joy of reading and emphasize the societal responsibility to foster a culture of literature in a tech-driven world.
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Corporations Capturing Attention
- Corporations exploit our attention, mirroring addiction, for profit.
- This "replacement" for reading lacks restorative brain benefits.
Mental Load of Reading
- Reading requires more mental effort than passively watching TV or scrolling.
- Studies suggest physical books improve information retention over screens, possibly due to less skimming.
PBS Kids and Reading
- Abdullah Shihipar contrasts modern children's media with educational shows like Reading Rainbow.
- He highlights the decline of public television's role in promoting reading.