Why the Internet Is Inevitable Rodney P. Riegle, Ph.D. Many people are unequivocal in their support of books, but view the Internet with suspicion. But books, like the Internet, are not all good or all bad. Because we can rely on books, written notes, etc. The basic skills have changed from listening and speaking to reading and writing. Books increased the pace of change and this in turn made contemplation less important.
Word of mouth is much slower than a printing press.
More information than anyone could possibly assimilate suddenly became available to everyone. This meant that anti-contemplation skills such as skimming, speed reading, and so on became essential. Books caused illiteracy. Prior to the printing press, it was not important for most people to be able to read or write. After the printing press, these skills were essential for success.