Is the influence of books on people's values as strong today as it was in the past?

The influence of books on people's values, while certainly significant today, is arguably not as profound as it was in the past. Historically, books were among the few accessible means of disseminating information and ideas, effectively shaping societal norms and individual beliefs. In contrast, today's information landscape is saturated with diverse media—television, social networks, podcasts—that often compete with literary forms for attention. Consequently, while literary works still possess the power to challenge perceptions and inspire introspection, the immediacy and sensationalism of digital content frequently overshadow their impact. Moreover, the shift towards a more visual culture has altered how values are transmitted and internalized. Nevertheless, books remain a crucial medium for fostering critical thinking, depth of understanding, and empathy, which are invaluable in an increasingly complex world. Thus, while their influence may have waned, it is by no means negligible.