Why reading matters | Rita Carter | TEDxCluj

The Benefits of Reading Fiction

Reading fiction is not merely a pastime; it has significant benefits that can enhance imagination, memory, personal relationships, and overall well-being. Despite common perceptions that reading for pleasure is a waste of time, recent research supports the idea that engaging with fictional narratives can profoundly impact personal development and social skills.

Understanding the Type of Reading that Matters

The reading being emphasized here is not the educational or administrative reading critical for navigation through daily life. Instead, it focuses on fiction—stories that immerse readers in the emotions, thoughts, and perspectives of characters. This type of reading allows readers to transcend their experiences and adopt different viewpoints, creating a vivid understanding of diverse emotional landscapes.

Research Evidence

In 2013, psychologists David Kidd and Emanuele Castano conducted experiments demonstrating the benefits of reading fiction. Participants read passages from various types of literature—both fictional and non-fictional—before taking a test evaluating their ability to discern emotions from facial expressions, an assessment of 'Theory of Mind.' This ability is essential for understanding others' feelings and experiences, suggesting that those engaged in rich storytelling experience enhanced empathy.

Personal Experience with Reading Groups

The speaker shares a personal anecdote from a reading group comprising individuals grappling with mental health issues. The participants read "Wuthering Heights" and expressed how deeply they connected with the characters' emotions. Their discussions highlighted how engaging with fiction allowed them to explore complex feelings, enhancing their emotional intelligence and social awareness.

The Brain Science of Reading

The speaker transitions into the neuroscience behind reading, explaining how our brains are wired. Unlike speaking, which is a genetically embedded skill, reading requires new neural pathways to be formed. This process makes reading a unique workout for the brain, engaging various areas beyond language processing.

Distinctions Between Speaking and Reading

When reading, different brain regions activate compared to speaking. For instance, seeing an abstract symbol necessitates complex cognitive processing to decode meanings and draw connections within the brain. The regions activated while reading a narrative mirror those engaged during actual experiences, allowing readers to almost live out those moments in their minds.

New Findings from Emory University

Recent research from Emory University corroborates the earlier findings regarding increased empathy following fiction reading. Participants who read excerpts from an engaging novel underwent brain scans before and after a week of nightly readings. The results showed significant increases in the connectivity of different brain areas, indicating the motivational and immersive power of literature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the act of reading fiction serves as an essential mental exercise, akin to physical workouts for the body. As individuals cultivate empathy through narratives, they contribute to a more understanding and compassionate society. Engaging with stories enhances not just personal growth but positively impacts social dynamics at large, reinforcing the idea that reading fiction is indeed a profound and valuable activity.