There’s been a considerable amount of talk about e-readers and how they are the must have in education, while traveling, or simply for convenience. Here are a few quick thoughts on them:
1. e-readers are not cheaper than books. If you look at total cost, including electricity, maintenance, etc… they are not cheaper. Further, I can’t see how they would be more convenient when traveling – they break a lot easier, they need to be charged and using one on the beach would a serious hassle.
2. For me it comes down to personal choice. Sure reading articles online, etc… makes sense, but reading an entire book doesn’t. I’ve tried and I don’t like it. e-readers will undoubtedly replace books for some people in specific situations. But like all technology, the book has its place, just like the bicycle. I can get to work faster than cars some days, and if you look at total cost to society, the environment, etc… I would say the bicycle is superior technology.
Use what’s good, not what’s new.