BETWEEN BOOKS AND SCREENS

THE BATTLE FOR CHILDREN'S COGNITIVE FUTURE

Abstract

Objective: In the book Make them read!: to avoid creating digital idiots, Michel Desmurget, cognitive neuroscientist, defends reading for pleasure as essential to avoid the emergence of the “digital idiot”. The author analyzes the decline in reading habits among children and teenagers, who often exchange books for superficial digital content. Criticism of the educational system focuses on the emphasis on decoding at the expense of deep understanding, resulting in ill-prepared graduates. Desmurget highlights the crucial role of the family in developing readers and the importance of an environment rich in books from childhood. He argues that reading activates areas of the brain and offers significant cognitive benefits, in addition to being superior to consuming information on screens. Conclusion: The work is a call to action for parents and educators about the importance of reading in the formation of critical citizens.