Is "Creator Washing" the New Greenwashing? Reading Better - Farnam Street

Is "Creator Washing" the New Greenwashing? Reading Better - Farnam Street

In today's world, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it can be challenging to discern the truth from misleading claims. We often come across terms like "greenwashing," which refers to companies misleading consumers into believing their products or services are environmentally friendly. But now, there seems to be a new trend emerging called "creator washing."

Creator washing is the act of exploiting creators by misleading them into thinking that a product or service prioritizes creators more than it actually does. This manipulation not only harms creators but also undermines the integrity of the platforms they operate on. Truly ethical creator platforms should prioritize creator equity, diversity, mental health, and economic sustainability. It should be their goal to ensure long-term creator success rather than focusing solely on short-term profits.

One platform that has been praised for its community-building capabilities is TikTok. The app's suggestion algorithm has been instrumental in helping creators find new fans, regardless of their previous popularity. TikTok's approach of providing equal opportunities to all creators is commendable and sets a standard for other platforms to follow.

But what does all of this have to do with reading? Well, as the saying goes, "Great minds read a lot." Reading is a powerful tool that allows us to tap into the collective wisdom of others. As Charlie Munger once said, "In my whole life, I have known no wise people (over a broad subject matter area) who didn't read all the time – none, zero."

Reading not only exposes us to new ideas and perspectives but also allows us to learn from the mistakes and successes of others. It enables us to master the best of what has already been figured out by great thinkers and innovators. However, it's essential to approach reading in a way that maximizes its benefits.

One common mistake many people make is feeling obligated to finish every book they start. While it's admirable to have the intention to complete what we begin, sometimes, it's more beneficial to give up on a book that doesn't resonate with us. Good books have a way of finishing themselves; they captivate us and make it impossible to put them down. On the other hand, forcing ourselves to finish a bad book is like trudging through mud with a wheelbarrow full of bricks. Life is too short to waste on unfulfilling reads.

Instead of trying to read every book cover to cover, it's more effective to skim through a lot of books and reserve our complete attention for a select few. The effort we put into reading should align with the purpose and content of the material. Some books only deserve a quick skim, while others warrant a deep understanding and multiple readings.

To guide our reading process, the Levels of Reading offer four different approaches, ranging from easiest to hardest: reading to entertain, reading to inform, reading to understand, and reading to master. Most of our reading time will likely fall between levels two and three, where we seek to gain knowledge and comprehension.

It's important to note that reading speed is not a metric that truly matters. No one cares how fast we read or how many books we consumed last year. The real value lies in what we absorb and apply in our lives. The opportunity cost of reading something new is potentially missing out on revisiting the best book we've ever read. It's crucial to strike a balance between exploring new material and revisiting the timeless classics that have had a profound impact on us.

Additionally, writing about what we read can significantly enhance our understanding and retention of the material. The process of putting our thoughts on paper helps us discover gaps in our comprehension and solidify our knowledge. It allows us to connect new information with what we already know, creating a web of understanding that facilitates further learning.

In conclusion, the rise of "creator washing" serves as a reminder to be vigilant in discerning truth from manipulation. Truly ethical creator platforms prioritize the well-being and success of creators over short-term profits. As individuals, we can enhance our understanding and personal growth through reading and adopting a strategic approach. Skimming through various books, reserving deep dives for select works, and writing about what we read can amplify the benefits of this lifelong learning practice.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Prioritize platforms that genuinely support creators and promote their well-being.

• 2. Embrace a strategic approach to reading, focusing on quality over quantity.

• 3. Engage in reflective writing to reinforce and deepen your understanding of what you read.

Remember, the pursuit of knowledge is a never-ending journey. By continuously learning and seeking wisdom, we can navigate through the noise and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex world.