What are the two primary reasons people read?

Reading serves a multitude of purposes, and being entertained alongside seeking enlightenment captures two fundamental motivations. When people read for entertainment, they often seek enjoyment through storytelling, imaginative worlds, or engaging narratives that captivate their interest. This aspect of reading allows individuals to escape reality, foster creativity, and experience emotions vicariously through characters and plots.

On the other hand, the pursuit of enlightenment is tied to the quest for understanding and personal growth. This includes exploring complex philosophical ideas, gaining insight into different cultures, or reflecting on moral dilemmas. Readers often engage with texts that challenge their thinking, expand their worldview, and promote intellectual stimulation. This duality of entertainment and enlightenment showcases how reading can fulfill deeper human needs: the desire for joy and the quest for knowledge and wisdom. This combination aligns with why many choose to immerse themselves in books across genres, reflecting both a personal enjoyment and a broader intellectual pursuit.