This quote highlights the declining trend of reading habits in modern society, emphasizing how rare it has become for individuals to dedicate time to reading books. In a world increasingly dominated by instant information, social media, and multimedia content, the act of reading long-form material is often viewed as outdated or antiquated. The phrase "fellow Neanderthal" humorously underscores this point, suggesting that engaging with written words is a primitive activity in the digital age. Despite the decline in reading, there is a certain richness and depth that books offer, which cannot be easily replaced by fleeting digital snippets. Reading fosters critical thinking, concentration, and a deeper understanding of complex ideas—traits essential for personal growth and societal development. As a society, we risk losing the nuanced comprehension and empathy that come from engaging with literature, history, and philosophy, which require patience and reflection. The author's tone seems to acknowledge this cultural shift with a hint of camaraderie for those still willing to invest time in reading, adding a sense of belonging for the small community of avid readers amidst a culturally distracted population. Recognizing the significance of this activity—despite its marginalization—is vital because books shape perspectives far more profoundly than the quick dopamine hits from social media. We must consider how to reintegrate meaningful reading into our lives and societal values before ignorance and superficiality deepen.

(from "Why We Hate Us: American Discontent in the New Millennium" by Dick Meyer)