James Marriott’s long Substack post from last September probably won’t reach as many eyeballs as it needs to. Because it’s a long read – and hardly anyone reads anymore.
The post is equal parts sobering and depressing, with a dollop of scary on top. Since the smartphone was launched, we’re all reading less, but especially our kids.
The invention of the printing press democratized learning.
But the launch of the smartphone started sending our civilization in the other direction.
The “smartphone” is making us a lot dumber.
It’s turning civilized political debate into pro wrestling.
And because the big tech companies rely on our “engagement” for revenue, they profit from this race to the bottom.
Our civilization is at stake, and the clock is ticking (but not TikTok-ing). The smartest way to fight the smartphone scourge is to put down your phone, and pick up a book.
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