Books vs. Brain Rot: why it's so hard to read

The Decline of Reading Culture

Americans are reading fewer books than ever, as reflected in recent surveys showing a steady decline in reading time over the past two decades. Factors contributing to this trend include the encroachment of technology and social media, which have captured people's attention spans, often leading to doom scrolling instead of engaging with literature. This shift in focus has transformed reading from a commonly accepted pastime into a more niche activity, necessitating a more intentional effort to promote it, particularly among young people. The lack of emphasis on reading in popular culture, along with the overwhelming availability of digital distractions, signals a concerning shift in how society values literature and critical thinking.