World Changing #5

With the rise of the Internet, television and computer and video games, the wonderful world of literature is gradually taking a backseat with new generations. People yearn for a full sensory experience now, which is more available through new technologies. With that, however, the use and promotion of imagination and creative processes are lost.

In the highly populated Mexico City, a program has been established where books are being given out for free on the subway. It encourages reading in an area where computers and televisions are as accessible, which allows people to give literature a chance, with no cost to them. The contributing authors were paid approximately $300, and the opportunity to promote their work. “The program gets books into the hands of those Mexicans who can’t normally afford to buy them. And transit officials also hope that crime in the system might decrease if crooks are busy reading rather than picking the pockets of fellow riders” (Steffen 285-286). Essentially, the program provides education, promotion of literature in a time of higher technological entertainment, and safety for citizens.

Steffen, Alex. World Changing: A User's Guide For the 21st

Century. New York, NY: Abrams, 2008. Print.