Reading Rewired the Human Brain. What Happens If We Stop Doing It?

The podcast explores the importance of reading, particularly deep reading, in an increasingly digital age, and its impact on society and individual cognitive abilities. Neuroscientist Maryanne Wolf argues that literacy fundamentally rewires the brain, influencing societal thought and democratic function. The discussion highlights the advantages of deep reading, such as fostering empathy, critical analysis, and a nuanced understanding of complex issues, contrasting it with the superficiality encouraged by digital skimming. Wolf and the host, Rufus, reference studies showing superior comprehension with print and advocate for building "biliterate brains" capable of both deep reading and digital literacy. They also touch on the potential of podcasts to revive Socratic dialogue, while emphasizing the unique generative power of writing and the human voice.