I would suggest there might be a fourth aspect of your subject @zuerich - the ability to think. Critically, rationally, logically ... I have no idea how that might be quantitatively measured, but ...
Of what value is the ... "mechanics" ... of being literate, i.e. reading and writing, without it?
I have no question, in my lifetime, this ability has declined substantially. At least in my part of our big, wide world.
I hope all is well with you and your loved ones, my friend!
I'm glad to read your comment.
Yes, the ability to think is very important and seems to have been in decline for decades.Dear @roleerob,
Yes, all is well with us. I hope with you, too.
Have a great weekend!
I should have added "independently" to my original list, as even those who, on the surface, appear to have ... "a few brain cells to click together" ... seem incapable of truly independent thought.
"Group think" is all the rage ... I call them "echo chambers," with those who choose to participate in them taking turns "virtue signaling" each other, by how "cleverly" (legends in their own minds) they restate whatever "common knowledge" tells them that "everybody knows" ...
Yes, with a new growing season underway, we are doing well. Living the simple life ... Thank you!