Scientists have now “proved” that reading literary fiction makes you a more feeling person. After reading literary fiction, as opposed to popular fiction or serious nonfiction, people performed better on tests measuring empathy, social perception and emotional intelligence, the study says. Even though I am happy to have an excuse for reading literary fiction, I don’t believe a word of it. They have said reading reduces the chance of getting Alzheimer’s but it didn’t help Iris Murdoch or Terry Pratchett, did it? They also said brushing your teeth reduces the chances of Alzheimer’s. Sometimes scientists seem to talk as much rubbish as politicians.