Singapore is paying its citizens to read. (But will it work?)

On September 6, Singapore launched a program to pay citizens for reading. The National Library Board hopes this "gamification strategy" will enhance concentration, critical thinking, and imagination among Singaporeans, while combating doomscrolling and social media usage. The ReadSG pilot program, set to run for five years, operates on a points system where readers earn S$1 (80c) by logging 50 daily reading sessions of 15 minutes or more.

Each session grants 20 virtual coins, with 1,000 coins required to convert into real currency. One reading session per day is permitted. Singapore has previously used similar incentive schemes for healthy habits, citing notable success. However, social scientists debate whether this program, which offers minimal monetary rewards, will truly foster a lasting reading habit.

Some argue that short-term rewards, especially those lacking substantial value, are unlikely to establish a lasting behavior change. Conversely, if the rewards mirror the dopamine hit many receive from social media, the reading initiative may indirectly reduce screen time, potentially leading to overall benefits. Experts suggest that the program could particularly benefit those who are either reluctant or infrequent readers, as a slight boost in motivation could push them beyond their current reading level.

Nonetheless, if neither financial incentives nor personal satisfaction can motivate loyal readership, the NLB offers an additional enticement: citizens can allocate the accumulated money towards charity. Singapore aims to engage 150,000 users by September 2027. Citizens, your stacks await.