Singapore now pays people to read books
Singapore has introduced an innovative five-year initiative to encourage reading among its citizens. The program, dubbed "Read to Earn," offers small cash payments to individuals who log their reading minutes on a government platform. Launched this month, the campaign aims to revive the habit of reading, which is increasingly being replaced by doomscrolling and mindless online content.
The term "brain rot," referring to the mental fog caused by excessive consumption of shallow online material, gained prominence in 2024 when Oxford University Press named it its Word of the Year.
The National Library Board (NLB) is leading the initiative, emphasizing that reading strengthens attention, critical thinking, and imagination. Board CEO Melissa Tam stated that the program hopes to create a nation of readers who are curious, thoughtful, and capable of navigating an increasingly complex world. However, participants should not expect substantial financial rewards.
To earn just one Singapore dollar (approximately $0.80), readers must log 50 days of sessions, with each 15-minute-or-longer session worth 20 virtual coins. A total of 1,000 coins is required to cash out, with only one session being countable per day.
The pilot program, which will run through the end of the year, may incorporate additional features based on public feedback. Moreover, there is an option to donate earnings to charity instead of receiving cash. The timing of this initiative is significant, as global reading scores among 15-year-olds have been declining, and educators are concerned about the impact of brain rot and doomscrolling on young readers. In Singapore, students often lose their reading habits when facing high-stakes examinations.
Critics argue that monetary incentives might not foster a genuine love for reading, as existing interest is crucial for sustained motivation. While those already interested in reading may find the rewards appealing, individuals with no prior interest in reading may find it challenging to develop a lasting passion for books. Nevertheless, the program has sparked a discussion about the role of financial incentives in cultivating reading habits, particularly in a society where academic pressure can deter young people from picking up a book for leisure.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
