Agree, even if it is predominantly lazy get-the-gist reading habits that makes the difference, I don't think the solution would be to crank up the reading level

Agree, even if it is predominantly lazy get-the-gist reading habits that makes the difference, I don't think the solution would be to crank up the reading level of everything (and you laid out here a great set of reasons!). Those of us that want more complex material can find it.