AI companies understand the value of owning books. Do we?
Every time I move home, I understand the appeal of streaming. Books are heavy, records are fragile and boxes of films and games seem to multiply as soon as the movers arrive. In the UAE, where moving between apartments – or countries – is a familiar part of life, a library that fits on a phone is an easy sell. But any flirtation with going digital-only dissipates when I read the news. Have you…
In the digital age, owning books seems like a relic of the past. Streaming services offer instant access to an endless library, but the convenience comes at a cost. Companies like Anthropic have recognized the value of physical books in training AI models, purchasing millions of second-hand volumes to digitize. However, this raises concerns about ownership and control.
When Anthropic digitized the books, it owned the resulting content, while most digital purchases are licenses, not true ownership. Streaming platforms are also changing their models, moving towards digital-only access for games and films. This passive consumption can lead to a lack of engagement with the content, as users scroll through endless options without truly connecting to any single piece.
In contrast, physical copies of books, records, and movies offer a different experience. They sit on shelves, catching the eye and reminding us of the choices we've made. Unread books, in particular, serve as a reminder of possibilities and potential interests. A study showed that growing up in a home with visible books can strengthen literacy and problem-solving skills.
The presence of books, even if not fully read, can have lasting effects. Similarly, vinyl records invite a more ritualistic approach to listening, requiring physical interaction and creating a connection to the music that streaming cannot replicate. While digital convenience is tempting, the tangible nature of physical media offers a more engaging and thoughtful experience.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- AI companies understand the value of owning books. Do we? thenationalnews.com
