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Most programmers (at least most of my undergraduate classmates) use light text on dark background (LTDB) and so do I, instead of dark text on light background (DTLB). And as we know, traditional books and e-books are almost unanimously DTLB, and some studies claims (such as the Skeptics SE post I linked below) DTLB is more readable.

But, which, DTLB or LTDB, is less harmful to the eyes? I found the opinion divides on Reddit or on Quora. As I am in my 20s, upon asking this, I am worried that all-day watching computer screen will cause problems of my eyes in my middle age, as also is the case of the modern generation.

While this is a possible duplicate, I think the answerer is potentially confusing two things, namely readability and harm to the eyes, and some of his wording is ambiguous that which he is addressing. I don't care readability: I find LTDB very readable. I want to know whether LTDB is indeed better or actually more harmful to the eyes.

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  • Welcome to Skeptics! We want to focus our attention on doubtful claims that are widely held or are made by notable people. Please provide some references to places where this claim is being made. Not that it is easier to read, or causes less short-term tiredness, but that it is less harmful to the eyes.
    – Oddthinking
    Commented Dec 27, 2016 at 13:34
  • Oh I see... previously I did not understand the rule of Skeptic SE, and there is no guide tour. Then I agree this is off-topic, but I don't know where to ask this. Commented Dec 27, 2016 at 13:55
  • There are internet discussions for suggestions on both side, and some in Chinese, but there is no celebrity or authority. I think this does not best fit the spirit of Skeptics SE, and maybe I shall ask in Health SE, or will you migrate for me? Commented Dec 27, 2016 at 14:09
  • This question seems to have been asked multiple times on UX Commented Dec 27, 2016 at 23:28
  • @DaaaahWhoosh I have seen that, but it still focuses on "readability" rather than eye health. So as I see it, this is best to ask an eye doctor..... Commented Dec 28, 2016 at 5:58

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