I have a sort of meta-question,
Specifically about non-fiction work: if one gets the central idea contained in the book (say, from a blog or Podcasts or YouTube video of author explaining the ideas) - Is it still useful to read the entire book?
If a book is fundamentally about “ideas” — aren’t there more efficient ways available today (that were not pre-internet) to learn those ideas more quickly?
As an example: There is a Dave Rubin podcast where Jordan Peterson lays out the 12 Rules of Life very clearly and concisely. If one knows the rules and understands them, is it still necessary/important to read the book?
I wonder, just how much “reading the entire non-fiction book” is increasingly now an archaic way to ingest new ideas?
I think this depends how you value your time, and how you feel about reading. I personally feel that the point of reading is not simply about understanding the fundamental ideas those books are about. More important is to do something you enjoy, and if you don't enjoy reading that much, going with the more efficient way is most likely the better way to go.
I also find that reading gives you time to reflect on the author's points and see where you agree or disagree, which helps you clarify your own understanding.
If a book is fundamentally about “ideas” — aren’t there more efficient ways available today (that were not pre-internet) to learn those ideas more quickly?
As an example: There is a Dave Rubin podcast where Jordan Peterson lays out the 12 Rules of Life very clearly and concisely. If one knows the rules and understands them, is it still necessary/important to read the book?
I wonder, just how much “reading the entire non-fiction book” is increasingly now an archaic way to ingest new ideas?