Digest

This episode of Smologies continues its exploration of the science of reading with Dr. Adrienne Johns, a professor of history at the University of Chicago. The conversation delves into the historical evolution of reading practices, highlighting the differences in reading experiences across different eras. Dr. Johns emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context of reading to grasp its significance in shaping culture and society. The episode also explores the origins of reading, tracing its roots back thousands of years to ancient Sumeria and Egypt, where writing systems like cuneiform and hieroglyphics emerged. Dr. Johns discusses the debate surrounding the earliest forms of writing and their impact on human communication. The episode also examines the neurological processes involved in reading, highlighting the role of different brain regions in assigning meaning to shapes and symbols. Dr. Johns discusses the debate surrounding the efficiency of different writing systems, including alphabetic, abjad, syllabographic, and logographic systems. The episode also explores the impact of the printing press on the spread of literacy, discussing the significant increase in the production and circulation of printed materials, leading to greater access to knowledge and information. The chapter also examines the role of censorship and government control in shaping the dissemination of printed materials. The episode also discusses the history of banned books and the act of reading as a form of protest, highlighting the significance of reading materials that challenge societal norms and promote critical thinking. The chapter also explores the contemporary surge in book challenges and censorship in schools and libraries. The episode examines the collective nature of knowledge and the role of reading in shaping individual and societal understanding. Dr. Johns discusses the challenges of maintaining reading habits in a world of constant distractions and the impact of technology on reading practices. The episode explores the history of literacy programs and their impact on society, discussing the role of public education in promoting literacy and the evolution of reading instruction methods. The chapter also examines the challenges of dyslexia and the importance of early intervention.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the episode and its guest, Dr. Adrienne Johns, a professor of history at the University of Chicago. The episode focuses on the science of reading and explores various aspects of reading, including its history, practices, and impact on society.

00:02:00

Agonistology: The Science of Reading

This Chapter delves into the term "agonistology," which refers to the study of reading. Dr. Johns explains the origins of the term and its significance in understanding the history and science of reading. The chapter also introduces the main themes of the episode, such as the evolution of reading practices, the impact of technology, and the challenges of dyslexia.

00:07:08

The Historical Disconnect of Reading Practices

This Chapter explores the historical evolution of reading practices, highlighting the differences in reading experiences across different eras. Dr. Johns emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context of reading to grasp its significance in shaping culture and society.

00:08:23

The Origins of Reading

This Chapter delves into the origins of reading, tracing its roots back thousands of years. Dr. Johns discusses the emergence of writing systems in ancient Sumeria and Egypt, highlighting the significance of cuneiform and hieroglyphics. The chapter also explores the debate surrounding the earliest forms of writing and their impact on human communication.

00:13:02

The Science of Reading: Brain and Language

This Chapter examines the neurological processes involved in reading, highlighting the role of different brain regions in assigning meaning to shapes and symbols. Dr. Johns discusses the debate surrounding the efficiency of different writing systems, including alphabetic, abjad, syllabographic, and logographic systems.

00:15:50

The Printing Press and the Rise of Literacy

This Chapter explores the impact of the printing press on the spread of literacy. Dr. Johns discusses the significant increase in the production and circulation of printed materials, leading to greater access to knowledge and information. The chapter also examines the role of censorship and government control in shaping the dissemination of printed materials.

00:19:09

Banned Books and the Act of Protest

This Chapter discusses the history of banned books and the act of reading as a form of protest. Dr. Johns highlights the significance of reading materials that challenge societal norms and promote critical thinking. The chapter also explores the contemporary surge in book challenges and censorship in schools and libraries.

00:27:14

Reading Habits and the Collective Nature of Knowledge

This Chapter examines the collective nature of knowledge and the role of reading in shaping individual and societal understanding. Dr. Johns discusses the challenges of maintaining reading habits in a world of constant distractions and the impact of technology on reading practices.

00:31:03

Literacy Programs and Their Impact

This Chapter explores the history of literacy programs and their impact on society. Dr. Johns discusses the role of public education in promoting literacy and the evolution of reading instruction methods. The chapter also examines the challenges of dyslexia and the importance of early intervention.

01:15:30

Closing Remarks

This Chapter concludes the episode with Dr. Johns expressing her excitement about reading and her hope that listeners will continue to explore the world of literature.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is agonistology and why is it important to understand the science of reading?

  Agonistology is the study of reading, encompassing its history, science, and impact on society. It explores the evolution of reading practices, the influence of technology, and the challenges of dyslexia. Understanding agonistology helps us appreciate the complexities of reading, its role in shaping our understanding of the world, and the challenges faced by individuals with reading difficulties.

• How did the printing press revolutionize literacy and access to knowledge?

  The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, revolutionized literacy by making the production and distribution of printed materials more efficient and affordable. This led to a significant increase in the availability of books, newspapers, and other printed materials, making knowledge more accessible to a wider audience. The printing press played a crucial role in the spread of literacy and the dissemination of ideas during the Renaissance and beyond.

• What are some of the challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia and how can we support them?

  Individuals with dyslexia may struggle with decoding words, recognizing letters and sounds, and comprehending written text. They may also experience difficulties with spelling, writing, and language processing. To support individuals with dyslexia, it is essential to provide early intervention, specialized instruction, and accommodations that address their specific learning needs. This may include multisensory learning approaches, assistive technology, and individualized reading strategies.

• How does reading contribute to the collective nature of knowledge and understanding?

  Reading allows us to access and share knowledge accumulated by others throughout history. It enables us to build upon existing ideas, engage in critical thinking, and contribute to the collective understanding of the world. Reading fosters empathy, expands our perspectives, and connects us to a wider community of readers and thinkers.

Show Notes