Weekends and leisure choices

On weekends, some people watch series, others go out or play sports. Many choose to read serious books on personal development or management to feel productive. However, some individuals who think a lot often use their weekends for reading novels, immersing themselves in stories without taking notes or seeking lessons.

Reading for productivity or pleasure

Most readers who want to "become more intelligent" turn to non-fiction: economics essays, business books, or guides on organization. This choice feels responsible and virtuous. By the end of the weekend, one can reflect on what was learned and feel that time was well spent. In contrast, reading fiction seems like a lighter option, often reserved for when one is too tired for more serious reading.

The value of reading fiction

Psychologist Mark Travers, writing for Forbes, notes that people who earn a living by thinking often spend Saturday afternoons immersed in novels, without taking notes. This activity seems unproductive, but it may be more beneficial to their thinking than the books they are proud to have finished.

Fiction as a mental exercise

Cognitive scientist Keith Oatley compares fiction to a flight simulator in an article published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences. A novel allows readers to experience life from another person's perspective without the risks of real errors. This helps develop a psychological ability called theory of mind, which is the skill of guessing what someone else thinks or desires.

Tracking multiple perspectives

This mental exercise involves keeping track of what each character knows or doesn't know, as well as what the reader perceives. This ability to hold multiple viewpoints in mind does not stay confined to the story. It helps in understanding others in daily life, such as realizing a colleague accepted a decision reluctantly or that a friend's "it's fine" might mean they expect follow-up.

Fiction and cognitive closure

Recent research highlights another benefit of reading fiction. Psychologists describe a trait called cognitive closure need: the discomfort with ambiguity and the tendency to seek quick, reassuring explanations. A study in Scientific Reports shows that people who strongly prefer cognitive closure often seek out like-minded individuals and avoid conflicting ideas, especially in uncertain situations. Fiction, with its open endings and uncertainty, trains the mind to stay curious even when not everything is clear.

The hidden power of fiction

Whether reading a classic novel or a psychological thriller, in print or as an audiobook, the key is to let the story carry the reader rather than trying to extract lessons. This seemingly unproductive time can deeply transform how one understands others and complex situations.