The sad truth is that people nowadays can't even pass through a 15-minute podcast without checking out their Twitter feed multiple times. So, I'm not sure how many people would read through a 800-page textbook.
I think you'll find that the "screen brain" effect dissipates after about 20 minutes of discomfort. I've noticed this effect with novels and text books.
Note that I don't think it's a great idea to just "read through" an 800 page text book even if you can - you've got to do exercises and check your own knowledge or else you will be spinning your wheels.
> I think you'll find that the "screen brain" effect dissipates after about 20 minutes of discomfort
You mean one should persevere for more than 20 minutes and then can easily focus on the book? If so, that's great news! Note that I suffer from the "screen brain", but it's always good to know how brain works.
Well, there is a trick to reading a lot: don't live for the thrill of finally finishing a book or a paper. Instead enjoy the process of reading and understanding every paragraph.
Not sure why this is down voted. If this is because my armchair stats are wrong, I'd be very happy to be wrong. Otherwise, I was not saying textbook is no good. I'm just speculating that many people couldn't not enjoy even an invaluable book.
