Stack's Reading Habits Report Challenges Moral Panic Over Decline of Reading
Steven Watson, the founder of Stack, has published a survey regarding reading habits that counters the views of commentators such as James Marriott, who claim we are becoming a 'post-literate society.' The survey, which garnered nearly 450 responses, reveals that 97% of participants perceive a distinction between print and digital reading. While digital formats are appreciated for their speed and convenience, print is associated with emotional and cognitive advantages, such as enhanced focus and intimacy. Respondents characterized print as 'magical' and 'poetic,' in contrast to the 'standardised' nature of screens. Furthermore, 75% believe that reading a magazine in print is different from reading a book, appreciating magazines for their design and non-linear content, albeit sometimes considering them less serious. Watson refutes concerns about declining reading rates, highlighting the importance of engaging with various texts. This report is in line with the UK's National Year of Reading 2026.
Key facts
- Stack founder Steven Watson conducted a survey on reading habits with nearly 450 responses.
- 97% of respondents said reading in print feels different from reading on a screen.
- Print is associated with abstract benefits like focus, relaxation, and emotional connection, while digital is valued for practicality.
- 75% of respondents said reading a magazine in print differs from reading a book in print.
- Top reasons for reading magazines: design (76%), interesting content (74%), and photos/illustrations (66%).
- James Marriott's book 'The New Dark Ages' and The Atlantic's cover story 'The Age of Reading is Over' are cited as examples of moral panic.
- Ryan Broderick's Garbage Day newsletter argues that reading concerns are often framed by men who don't read much.
- The UK's National Year of Reading 2026, led by the National Literacy Trust, promotes all forms of reading.
- Watson believes print fosters deeper emotional connections and that society should avoid virtue signalling about reading.
Entities
Artists
- Steven Watson
- James Marriott
- Ryan Broderick
Institutions
- Stack
- The Times
- The Atlantic
- Garbage Day
- National Literacy Trust
- Cambridge University
- Radio 4
- Apple
Locations
- United Kingdom
- United States
- London