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The paper aims to integrate the results of several studies on the representation of masculine generics in German into a theoretical framework. Although the results are consistent in showing the male bias of masculine generics, they are based on different experimental procedures and stimulus variations, and that makes the cognitive processes involved hard to compare. Assuming that reading results in the construction of situation models and that gender-related memory content is activated through a fast, undirected resonance process it is possible to determine a common cognitive basis. Possible causes of gender-related resonance are identified and their influence on situation models is discussed. The theoretical base allows the formulation of general statements on how gender-related information influences language processing. Furthermore, it has practical implications for how to implement a gender-fair language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is concerned with activities of German institution from Mainz Stiftung Lesen. Author's aim is to present the last of its surveys (2008) against a background of other publications and activities that Stiftung Lesen has rendered. As for results, the survey was organized in relationship to two main topics: reading of minority national groups in Germany and reading within Internet. Results show that reading still represents a key competence, even for such activities as dealing with Internet and other media. One can witness no competition between these two media, but rather an attempt how to organize their roles and cultural cooperation anew. Once again, the book is not dying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]