AI can’t replace reading and writing
Why Writing Still Matters
A Conversation with a Skeptical Student
Last semester I had a memorable conversation with a student at our university about writing. I was giving a lecture in a communications class on the importance of writing, specifically, how to write op-eds to influence public opinion and policy. This student raised his hand and politely but assertively told me that writing is “old school” and that he has moved on to images and videos.
Now I don’t want to underestimate the importance and power of images and film for communication in our very visual culture, but neither did I want this student to underestimate the lasting importance and power of writing. With the onset of the digital revolution, many predicted that books would go away. They did not. When the new technology of speech recognition software appeared, many predicted that writing would go away. It did not. Now many are saying something similar about AI and ChatGPT. But again, I predict it will not.
Reading and writing are two essential skills of learning — gateway skills. Our K-12 schools and universities had better get them right. Reading opens up worlds. Writing changes worlds. We only speak as well as we write and think. We only write as well as we read. Both skills are foundational for our democratic republic.
Most of the American Founding Fathers were avid readers and disciplined writers. They understood the value of the press, the writing of political tracts and sermons. Their writings have transcended time and left an indelible mark on American history. But long before them, way back in the 16th century, Sir Francis Bacon himself said, “Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man.” That’s still true.
I don’t want our students (or our readers) to underestimate the importance and power of writing. Images quickly disappear. A shot on the TV screen lasts three to eight seconds. Writing doesn’t vaporize. There is something lasting about it. It’s been said that if you want to extend your life, write and leave something worth reading.
So I reminded this skeptical student that when God wanted to transmit his message to the world, what did he do? The Bible says he wrote something on tablets. That’s another reason to take writing seriously. Remember, the Old Testament and the New Testament were written in and given to cultures that were largely illiterate. In other words, it wasn’t really valued. There was no demand for writing. These were primarily visual cultures. Nevertheless, God used words anyway because they have staying power — they last. And they have.
When Jesus wanted to transmit his message to the world, he chose apostles who wrote gospels and letters. Perhaps that is why Jews and Christians have been called “people of the book.” When John describes Jesus in the fourth gospel, he refers to him as “the Word.” At the end of his gospel, John speculates that if all the things that Jesus did were written down, even the whole world would not have room for all the books that would be written.
There will always be room for and need for great writers. That is why a strategic priority of our university is “to teach students how to speak and write clearly and effectively.”
But don’t we have enough content, another student asked me in that same class? William F. Buckley had an apt reply: “Why do I write so much? Because my enemy writes more.” In a world abounding in bad content, we need more good content!
Martin Luther put it this way, “If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.” That’s an important message for Gen Z students everywhere who might be tempted to dismiss writing as “old school.” It’s certainly not!
There are two essential skills required to produce this editorial: writing and reading. The authors of any book write so that people can read.
With that in mind, “Tolle Lege.”
Dr. Donald Sweeting (@DSweeting) serves as chancellor of Colorado Christian University.
What are the practical benefits of strong writing skills in the professional world
It comes to communicating complex ideas, writing is still crucial. While images and videos can be effective in capturing attention and conveying emotions, they often lack the capacity for conveying nuanced arguments and detailed analysis. Writing allows us to engage with ideas in a more thoughtful and critical way, enabling us to express our thoughts and opinions more clearly and persuasively.
Moreover, writing is not just about expressing ourselves; it is about connecting with others. When we write, we participate in a conversation that transcends time and space. We join a long tradition of thinkers and scholars who have used writing to share their knowledge and shape the world around them. Just as we read the thoughts of Sir Francis Bacon today, future generations will read our words and be influenced by them.
Furthermore, writing is a skill that is increasingly in demand in the professional world. In a time where communication is largely digital, the ability to communicate effectively through writing is a valuable asset. Employers expect employees to be able to write clear and concise emails, reports, and presentations. Without strong writing skills, individuals may find themselves at a disadvantage in their careers.
Beyond the practical reasons, writing is also a form of self-expression and reflection. Writing allows us to explore our own thoughts and emotions, helping us to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It can serve as a therapeutic outlet, a way to make sense of our experiences, and a means of personal growth.
In conclusion, while images and videos have their place in our increasingly visual culture, writing remains an essential and powerful form of communication. It allows us to express complex ideas, connect with others across time and space, and develop valuable skills for the professional world. So, to all the skeptics out there, don’t underestimate the power and importance of writing. Embrace it, hone your skills, and leave a mark on the world that will endure long after you’re gone.
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