There are some questions about why reading a lot. What are you looking for? And you do not look like a techie.
A techie can master a tool. He can transform human solution into computer solution. Even most of the algorithms are inspired from daily life.
However, the limit is on the tools themselves. It can be good if tool is used properly. It is bad if tool is misused. Technology should set us free but the authority uses it to enslave us. Text message tool makes communication easier and faster but not yet better. Videos enrich the sensation but not the understanding. Technology removes the barrier among people and also reduce the combat distance in the conflict.
I am not reading a lot. Some more peoples and friends do read a lot. Reading can broaden my vision. Reading various types of books can enrich myself. It is also a certain kind of the kick start of self development. Know it before you work on it especially when it is not something new. As the time goes, certain areas will be the targets. Systematic reading and exercise is required. It is quite similar to studying a PhD program.
Someone asked why a student need to study Ancient Japanese language when he is going to write PhD paper for the Ancient Chinese language. Why is it required to study English-Chinese translation when studying Chinese history? In fact, nobody would tell you what do you need to study before reaching a milestone of your research. All those things should be discovered by yourself. We assume a researcher or a PhD student is reasonable, we may trace the reasoning path. Study Ancient Japanese language when studying Ancient Chinese language because they are closely related. The researchers may not know the relations before studying. In fact, most of the (new) relations are found after studying in other similar areas.
Exploration is one of the original desires of mankind. Self-development is also a natural tendency. These affairs should be driven by some ultimate goals and values defined in humanities. And this would make us human.
