Decline in Reading Culture : “A reading nation is an informed nation”

Since the beginning of the 21s century, the claim that we are at ‘the pinnacle of civilisation’ has been heard numerous times. While it is true that the recent technological developments and accessibility to electronic devices is almost unprecedented, yet this has resulted in the decline of one thing that according to historians “made our civilisation”; Reading.

If we have a look around us, we are likely to observe that most people- especially youngsters- are gradually losing interest in reading; whether it is reading a newspaper, a simple magazine or a book. Indeed, the very place that reading occupies in our society appears to be shrinking. According to some people, it is technology that is to be blamed for this as they believe that various electronic devices, the rise of the internet and the subsequent explosion of social media have all contributed directly or indirectly towards this decline by making it more and more difficult for people to ‘find time’ to read. Viewed from a different perspective, others argue that the decline in reading is a reflection of the decline in the value of education as a status symbol.

Whatever be the reason that lies behind this decline, it is crucial that the current trend be reversed for as Neil Postman once wrote in his book “Amusing Ourselves to Death”- which was about the repercussions of a decline in reading- “a mode of thinking is being lost.” For this to happen, it is essential that children be encouraged to read from a young age. If instilled from an early age, this habit of reading might then remain throughout their lifetime. In the same line of thought, it is important that academic institutions join the battle by not only providing books to students but by making a wide variety of books available in order to appeal to the different interests students might hold. Simultaneously, library classes should be monitored to ensure that students are not only ‘turning pages’ but actually reading. Moreover, the tradition of reading can be revived if we make effective use of technology by promoting online reading materials and by setting up online book clubs.

Whatever be the method used, it is urgent that the decline in the reading culture be reversed at the earliest possible for the importance of reading cannot be overstated.